Nanaimo’s Harbourside FC semi-pro soccer club has set sail on its sophomore campaign.
Harbourside held its second-ever home openers at Q’unq’inuqwstuxw Stadium on Saturday, May 4, with games against Rivers FC from Kamloops.
The women earned a 1-1 tie, with a goal from Jazmine Wilkinson in the 54th minute and goalkeeping from Kaiden Thorpe.
Coach Bobbie Taylor said her team had a slow start as the opposition controlled the tempo during the first half.
“The second half was much better as we played a more dynamic style and our back line and midfielders were connecting,” she said. “There were some great build up moments, one of which Jazmine finished with great composure.”
This year’s roster has been bolstered, said Daragh Fitzgerald, team technical lead.
“The team is overall stronger this year,” Fitzgerald told the News Bulletin. “We had the Highlanders team in Victoria fold earlier this year. So a lot of players from Victoria have come to create an all-Island team, which is nice. So I’d say we’re definitely in a stronger starting position than we were last year.”
Harbourside FC’s men’s side followed up with a 2-0 win, with Charlie Purcell scoring in the 10th minute and Hussein Behery adding insurance in the 61st minute. Goalkeeper Callum Weir recorded the clean sheet.
“We’re starting to build some synergy in our build up and attacking threat and at times it was really fun to watch,” said coach Kevin Lindo. “The guys were enjoying themselves.”
Fitzgerald said the goal this year will be for the clubs to make the post-season.
“We’d love to go top four, we’d love to get into the playoffs at the end of July, and then it’s anybody’s game from there,” he said.
GAME ON … Next up for Harbourside FC are road games against Altitude FC on Wednesday, May 8, at North Vancouver. Then come home matches against the Whitecaps FC on Saturday, May 11, at 1 and 3 p.m. at Q’unq’inuqwstuxw.
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