2006-07-13
Author: Ardin Masson

The idea was to strike while the iron was hot, but in another close affair the Portage Blaze were sent home with another loss last night in the Winnipeg Women's Soccer League.

Portage was on the road visiting Aftica at John Blumberg and afforded the Winnipeg based club their first victory of the year, by a 3-2 final. The Blaze were coming off a spectacular showing last week against the MJ Stars, a top ranked Division 2 club, in which they managed to tie 1-1.

Portage Coach, Bryan Mintenko, says it's unfortunate how inconsistent the Blaze play has been so far this summer. He illustrates his point by contrasting their fantastic effort against the Stars, who are currently ranked second in the division, and last night's play, which was uninspired. Mintenko adds that what makes last night's loss an even more bitter pill to swallow, is the fact that Portage built up a 2-0 lead after just 20 minutes of play, only to watch Aftica net 3 of their own before halftime. From there, Portage continued to control the game but Aftica's tight defensive schemes couldn't be broken and they secured the win. Portage goals were scored by Jill Fast and Michelle Bernard.

The Blaze will try to regroup as they embark on a 3-day tournament in Kenora beginning tomorrow.