Heather Lund scored in the opening half, while Darcie Kutryk scored a beautiful goal in the second half. Pandas keeper had a relatively easy day to register the shutout making only two saves.

 

Neither team was able to generate too many quality chances in the opening half, but the Alberta Pandas did capitalize on one of their few chances. Amanda Black sprung Lund who pulled the ball around Taura Willoughby and placed the ball off the far post and in from a difficult angle.

 

Willoughby did make two quality saves in the opening half, turning away Darcie Kutryk with a nice sliding challenge and off a goalmouth scramble turning Black away.

The ‘Horns never truly threatened the Pandas goal and registered only 2 first half shots, both off target.

 

The Pandas continued their strong ball possession game in the second half, forcing the ‘Horns to defend and play on their heels. While the ‘Horns defended well for the most part, they were never able to generate any sustained offensive pressure.

 

Less than 10 minutes into the second half, the Pandas doubled their lead. A wonderful cross from Sarah Smyth found Kutryk in the box, who one-touched it into the bottom left corner.

 

A short time later, the Pandas nearly scored again after a defensive miscue forced Willoughby to make a outstanding diving stop.

 

The ‘Horns head out on the road next weekend traveling to Regina and Winnipeg to face the Regina Cougars and Manitoba Bisons. The Pandas will be on the road for the second consecutive week, heading to the West Coast to face the UBC Thunderbirds and Trinity Western Spartans in crucial games that could have a huge impact on who hosts the Canada West final four.

-30-