The Carleton men’s varsity soccer team gave fans something to cheer about as they finished their regular season with a 4-1 victory over the Queen’s University Golden Gaels Oct. 24.
The stands at Keith Harris Stadium came alive as the men battled back from an early Queen’s goal with scores from Caki Simrooglu, Joey Kewin and Jonni Okai.
Raven goalkeeper Karl Wasslen dominated the field, saving a barrage of good shots from the Gaels’ offence, including a penalty kick late in the first half.
Simrooglu scored in 25th minute of play to tie up the game and Kewin scored his sixth regular season goal minutes before halftime to give the Ravens a 2-1 lead.
The Ravens didn’t let up after the half as Okai scored early in the second half, with the help of midfielder Sam McHugh.
Simrooglu topped off the Ravens scorecard with a perfect penalty shot past the Gaels’ goalkeeper to score his second of the game.
Fantastic defence kept the Gaels at bay, while midfielder Mitch Houlahan’s well-placed kicks and fast-feet kept the Gaels occupied.
“They did a great job today,” said head coach Sandy Mackie.
“It looks good for our squad going into the playoffs. I think the final four is definitely something we can do.”
Simrooglu, who returned to the field after a month and a half of injury, was named player of the game.
“This was a good last game for us,” Simrooglu said.
He added that having a relatively young team shouldn’t hold them back.
“We have two big games in front of us, but I think we can make nationals this year,” he said.
The men finish the season with a 7-5-2 record.