The Richmond Rockets capped a dominating season in the Metro Women’s Soccer League by capturing the U21 “B” Cup with a 2-0 win over the North Shore Elite.
The Rockets entered the single game elimination cup playdowns with plenty of momentum after dropping just one game in regular season play to capture division honours. Richmond outscored its opponents 53-7 in the process.
Rockets coaches Raf Perri and Tom Stewart attributed the team's success to the great bunch of girls on the team who like being around each other.
Perri noted the backline, for most of the games was impenetrable, while the midfielders and strikers pressured opposing teams constantly.
Having Mariyah Hamzagic, the best goalkeeper in the league, was a bonus for the team.
The coaches noted they never lost sight of the fact that it was important for the players to develop their skills, but to have fun while doing so.
There were no egos or superstar attitudes to deal with. When needed, different individuals stepped up their game throughout the campaign, yet it was always a team effort to achieve the league title and the cup win.
The Rockets roster also includes Ayesha Ali, Courtney Bergunder, Emily Carver, Holly Fellowes, Ashley Johnston, Andi Jordan, Ashley Kidd, Danielle Kiss, Jamie Kolb, Andrea Lynn, Kiana Maeda, Sarah Meyers, Rebecca Pattyson, Camille Robinson, Jade Ronse, Christie Stewart and Brittany Yurkin.
