Richmond FC will be dealing with a little adversity when they head across the country next week for the Sport Chek National Women’s Soccer Championships.
The B.C. representatives earned their trip to St. John’s, Newfoundland by capturing the Provincial Cup last May with a 4-0 victory over the North Shore Renegades — marking the first time since 1986 a Richmond team had accomplished the feat.
If the 4.5 hour time difference and a demanding schedule isn’t enough to deal with, the locals won’t be at full strength for the championships. Starting centre backs Kelly Cook and Sydney Morrison are both unavailable for the six-day tournament due to school commitments. Meanwhile, striker Jenna Richardson, who scored twice in the B.C. final, sustained an ankle injury in a season-opening win against Surrey United two weeks ago. The extent of her availability won’t be known for certain until Richmond’s opening game against Saskatchewan on Oct. 5.
Playing five 90-minute games over six days, depth is essential for success. Richmond’s will be tested even further since no players can be added from the roster that won back in May.
“Not having Kelly and Sydney leaves us with two huge holes to fill at the back,” said Stephen Burns, who is back with the coaching staff that includes head coach Jim Caldwell, along with Bruce MacKay and Ron Ng. “We are going to have to fill them by putting players where they haven’t really been before.
“I’ve been to the (CIS) nationals before, and having to play five full games in six days, there is no way you can just ride your starting 11. You have to use your bench and rest players accordingly. We are going to need everybody over the course of the tournament.”
Richmond FC has used a lethal transition game, that showcases the girls’ excellent speed, to fill the net on a regular basis. Shanay Sangha took on a more attacking role in a 6-0 win over Westside on Sept. 17 and will continue to play alongside striker Caitlin Davie, depending on Richardson’s availability in St. John’s.
Richmond will also see Edmonton United, Halifax and Fredricton in round-robin play. The group winner advances directly to the gold medal game on Oct. 10.
The second place finishers play off for bronze.
