The Swift Current Comp. Ardens soccer team returned to the medal podium with a bronze medal at SHSAA 5A Provincials in Regina over the weekend.
The Ardens won their opening match 2-1 over Prince Albert St. Mary in extra time on a late goal from rookie Rowan Robinson assisted by Elizabeth Metke. The Ardens had led 1-0 when Milana Dyck scored off a corner kick scramble late on the opening half. St. Mary equalised early in the second half with a shot from distance. Rory Williams earned the win in goal.
The Ardens dropped their semi-final match 3-0 to the eventual provincial champion Holy Cross Crusaders on Friday afternoon.
The Ardens met a familiar foe in the bronze medal match, but were able to defeat Yorkton Regional 4-1 to secure a medal. The Ardens took control of the match early when Robinson set up Navy Louma for an easy tap-in goal in the second minute. Robinson got behind the defense for a goal in the 22nd minute and Louma added her second goal in the 38th minute on a long shot over the goalkeeper.
The Ardens stretched the lead in the second half when Dyck ran right through the Raiders’ back line and blasted home another goal. Yorkton spoiled the clean sheet bid with a late goal from the penalty spot.
Grade 12 goalkeeper Tinara Bowditch earned the win in goal. Naimy Regier, Louma, and Piper Arntsen all had assists in the win.
