Kotsopoulos Saves the Day for Guelph United

Reggie Laryea of Guelph United FC

June 18, 2022, Guelph, ON – Guelph United FC battled more than just the visiting team on Friday night, they battled unfriendly winds. Despiste strong wind gusts up to 70 km/hr that made the ball highly unpredictable on the field, Guelph United drew their match against Pickering FC 3 - 3 and took home a point in the standings.

Pickering FC struck first and fast at Alumni Stadium. Within the first two minutes of the game, Pickering’s Eric Savvas took advantage of the wind blowing down Guelph’s attempt to clear the box and beat goalkeeper Sam Speolstra down low. Not a great start, but captain Jace Kotsopoulos would quickly tie the game up on a penalty kick earned by Reggie Laryea. Despite a good showing by Guelph, the lead didn’t last long as Pickering found the back of the net again in the 37th minute. The first half ended 2 - 1 for Pickering FC.

The second half didn’t start much better than the first. Pickering FC’s Nigel Buckley scored another goal for the visiting team, doubling their lead over Guelph. However, the fans who braved the chill were treated to a late surge from the home team as they came back to earn a draw. Guelph’s Jace Kotsopolous was on fire as he scored two more times within the last 4 minutes of regular time to earn his first hat trick of the season!

Guelph United is now 5 - 2 - 3 on the season and is just clinging onto a playoff spot as we approach the halfway point in the season. Their next match will see them on the road to St. Catherine’s to face the 19th seeded team, St. Catherine’s Roma, on Friday, June 24th where they desperately need to earn a win.