Box Score

CALGARY – Substitute Izak Lawrence's goal in the second half proved to be the difference on a rainy Saturday afternoon at West Varsity Soccer Pitch as the University of Calgary Dinos downed the University of Lethbridge Pronghorns 3-2 in their season opener.

With the rain coming down and puddles all over the field, Calgary dodged a strong attack by the 'Horns, who got better as the game went on. These two clubs meet again Sunday afternoon down Highway 2 in Lethbridge. Kick-off is scheduled for 2:15 at the Community Sports Stadium.

The Dinos opened the scoring to the 2013 season at the 13^th minute as a new name found its way onto the score sheet. From the left corner of the box, SAIT transfer Jaron Broom wired a shot past goalkeeper Tyler Boast for the early 1-0 advantage. Michael McKinnon picked up an assist on the play.

At the 25^th minute, the visiting Pronghorns knotted the score at one. With the ball laying in the Dinos' box, fourth-year defender Conner Brady slid the ball past Calgary's Jordan Unreiner.

The Dinos wasted little time responding as a shot by John Troncoso to the left corner eluded the Pronghorns' goalie.

After leading by one at the half, a free kick in the box gave Calgary a chance to extend their lead. Second-year Dino Tom Widdowson attempt the shot, but was blocked by the line of Lethbridge players.

Calgary would find the back of the net a few minutes later for a 3-1 score at the 56^th minute. A swift pass by Widdowson connected with Lawrence in the box where he headed the ball off the bar and in.

The Pronghorns refused to go away quietly as midfielder Odilichukwu Ohuegbe brought his team within one.

Lethbridge continued to plug away with the remaining time, throwing everything they had on goal. Despite the pressure, the Dinos managed to hold on in their home-opener.

Calgary finished the day with 11 shots compared to nine by Lethbridge. Unreiner made two stops for the Dinos, while Boast also turned away two attempts.

Next weekend, Calgary takes on its northern rivals, the University of Alberta Golden Bears in a home-and-home set. The Dinos will host on Saturday, Sept. 14 at McMahon Stadium before traveling to Edmonton for a Sunday matinee.

-UC-