Men’s soccer: Wolves eliminate Redeemer with 4-0 win in playoff qualifier

The Algonquin Wolves advanced in the men’s soccer playoffs with a 4-0 win at home over the Redeemer Royals on Oct. 21, responding to a must-win situation after watching the women’s team get eliminated earlier that day.

“There’s more at stake. The season can end at any moment,” said Wolves winger David Alexis.

“Our coach, Angus Wong, told us it’s do or die — so there’s more on the line,” said Wolves centre-back Sean Francky Ininahazwe.

The Wolves opened the scoring in the 27th minute when Cristian Aviles-Molina took a touch around a Royals defender before firing an accurate shot into the net.

Five minutes later, Alessandro Vivolo doubled the lead with a left-footed shot from outside the penalty area that beat the Redeemer goalkeeper.

Algonquin dominated the first half, leading 2-0 while outshooting Redeemer 9-0.

In the 80th minute, Wolves attacking midfielder Mohammed Mecheri dribbled past three Redeemer defenders and their goalkeeper before finishing from a tight angle to make it 3-0.

Mecheri struck again in the 90th minute, finishing a pass from Wolves striker Mateus Farreira to complete the 4-0 victory. The final whistle followed shortly after, sending Algonquin through to the next round.

Despite the cold weather, the players appreciated the fans who came out to support them.

“We appreciate the support every day and we want to thank the Wolves fans for showing up every day,” Ininahazwe said. “We hope to get more supporters on Saturday because it’s going to be a great game again.”

The Wolves return to the field Saturday against the Mohawk Mountaineers at 6 p.m. at the Algonquin Sports Field.