Finally, we can say that there will be some VISL Division 1 soccer played this weekend.
All the games are on turf, so we look to be full steam ahead with getting the last stretch of the regular season back underway.
Here is a snapshot of the interesting matches this weekend:
-Friday gets going with a bang as it is a battle of evil empires – North & South alliances.
Cowichan will host Gorge in Duncan, and this game will mean a lot to both teams.
Draws will not do for either team, especially if they expect to have an outside chance at the Garrison Cup, but more probable – a Provincial Cup berth.
-Friday night will also see bays hosting Vic West at UVic.
This match is extremely big for Bays as they are facing the same situation Gorge & Cowichan are.
Vic West are in no mans land. They will look to finish the year strong, and have a good Cup showing, and maybe be a spoiler.
-Saturday is a busy one with Nanaimo hosting Powell River.
A big match to gain some separation at the bottom of the table.
Nanaimo has picked up some fresh bodies and seem to be healthier than the normal this year, Powell River will have a tough road game.
-Mid Isle will have their last mathematical chance to get out of the cellar this weekend – it starts with them hosting Westcastle in Ladysmith.
They will need maximum points to hopefully finish the year on a streak to keep them in Div 1.
Westcastle on the other hand will need the 3 points in order to try to catch Lakehill.
-Saturday wraps up with the leaders, Lakehill, venturing out to the Westshore to face JDF.
Every game is big for the Reds at this point as they look to capture their first Garrison Cup in Lakehill’s 50+ years of existence.
JDF will look to earn the 3 points to keep them out of any relegation discussions.
-Sunday is a big day as Westcastle & Mid Isle play their make up game in the second game of the weekend home and home series.
A Westcastle win puts the extra pressure on the division leading Lakehill team and virtually guarantees that Mid Isle finish the season at the bottom.
Will be interesting to see how the teams bounce back from a game the night before.
Here are the standings in case you need a reminder:
The start to 2020 has been a little crazy to say the least.
Safe to say the next couple weeks will be hectic, especially with Jackson Cup play just around the corner.
See you at the pitch, bring an umbrella.
Thanks for supporting local grassroots soccer in your community.
Vince Greco
VISL Executive Director