In an exhilarating clash for the U18 Girls 2024 MilkUP Ontario Cup, Richmond Hill Soccer Club emerged victorious over Kitchener TFC Academy with a final score of 2-1. The match, held on Sunday morning at Vaughan's Zanchin Autmotive Soccer Centre, showcased the talents and tenacity of both teams, providing fans with a gripping 90 minutes of action. 

The game kicked off with Kitchener TFC Academy showing early promise. Alyssa Schmidt made the first attempt on goal in the 4th minute, but Richmond Hill's keeper Anna Elin Clements was alert and made a crucial save. Kitchener maintained the pressure, and Clements was called into action again with another save in the 6th minute. 

Richmond Hill quickly countered with an attempt from Sofia Perri that hit the post, followed by a shot from Brooke Moussavi, which was brilliantly saved by Kitchener's Mya Brodrecht. The breakthrough came in the 10th minute when Elisa Baglione found the back of the net for Richmond Hill, giving them an early lead. 

The lead was short-lived as Kitchener’s Genevieve Morgan showcased her dribbling prowess, weaving through multiple defenders to score the equalizer in the 11th minute. The crowd was treated to a thrilling start, with both teams displaying their offensive capabilities. 

Kitchener's Annick LaRiviere had a promising attempt in the 33rd minute, but the game remained level. It was a clean contest, with the first foul only occurring in the 36th minute. Just before halftime, Richmond Hill’s Emma De Rosa had a chance, but Kitchener’s Brodrecht was ready to block the attempt. 

The second half began with high drama after Richmond Hill was awarded a free kick in the 46th minute. Elisa Baglione’s attempt led to a collision with Kitchener's goalkeeper, and Isabella Prestia capitalized on the chaos to tap the ball in, giving Richmond Hill a crucial lead. 

Kitchener fought valiantly for an equalizer, but despite their efforts and the addition of 5 minutes of stoppage time, they were unable to break through Richmond Hill's defense. The match concluded with Richmond Hill celebrating a hard-earned 2-1 victory. 

Overall, Kitchener recorded 11 shots with 7 on target, while Richmond Hill improved their shot count in the second half, finishing with 5 shots, 4 on target. 

Watch the match on the Ontario Soccer YouTube Channel.

See the full photo album on Facebook.