Another derby day, another 2-2 tie as Vaughan rallies late to spoil the day for the Woodbridge Strikers
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It was a hot day at North Maple Regional Park as the Woodbridge Strikers travelled to visit the Vaughan Azzurri in a game that was always meant to be exciting. There was quite a few people in attendance, from both sides, and the atmosphere was definitely one to remember.
First half saw both teams exchanging possession and chances and Woodbridge took advantage right away with Alex Merzarski getting on the end of a Gianluca Condello set piece to give the Bridge the lead in the 13th minute. The sides went into the half at 1-0 after a few more chances for each side left both teams hungry for more.
A second half to remember with late drama, cards and more
The second half started and picked up where the first half left off, with both teams pressing and trying to create an opportunity to either extend the lead or level the game. It was quick start for the Strikers as Joe Mac got on the end of a Santino De Bartolo cross to blast a left footed shot to the top corner and make it 2-0 for the away side.
From this moment on, Vaughan changed their strategy, and came out with a new offensive, switching their formation and really putting the Woodbridge side under pressure for the next 40 minutes of play. Woodbridge held the line well and even had a few chances, with one shot being cleared off the line by the goalkeeper which surely would have put the game to bed.
However, in the 85th minute, Mateo Caride would get on the end of a cross and hit a side volley into the bottom of the net to bring Vaughan within one of tying the game. Then, shortly after in the 88th minute, Vaughan took advantage of a quick free kick opportunity and sent in an unexpected cross to Omar Marzouk who levelled the game for the home team.
Vaughan had one more opportunity well into extra time as well, which saw a cross hit the crossbar and the follow up bicycle kick go well over the net, which would have given the Azzurri one of the biggest comebacks of the season.
Overall, a great game for all sides and a great atmosphere. Woodbridge will definitely be upset not to come away with three points and Vaughan should definitely be proud of their efforts in coming from behind to tie the game late.
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