(SAULT STE. MARIE, Ont.): The Algoma Thunderbirds men's soccer team put on a strong display at Superior Heights this past weekend, securing back-to-back victories over the Windsor Lancers. The wins showcased Algoma's balanced attack, clutch scoring, and the steady presence of goalkeeper Joshua Bondoc.
Game One (September 27):
The Thunderbirds came out energized in Saturday's opener, striking twice in the first half to build early momentum. Evan Hurren continued his excellent form, opening the scoring in the 24th minute before Thierry Nsega doubled the lead just three minutes later with help from Elliot Swenarchuk. After Windsor cut the deficit early in the second half, Algoma responded quickly—Alessandro Cenedese restored the two-goal cushion in the 56th minute, assisted by Brett Findlay, before Hurren sealed the 4-1 win with his second of the day in the 69th minute.
Bondoc was steady in net, making two saves, while Algoma's midfield controlled the tempo through Swenarchuk and Hiroki Wada.
Final Score: Algoma 4-1 Windsor
AUSU Player of the Game: Evan Hurren
Game Two (September 28):
Sunday's rematch brought more drama, with both sides battling through a tightly contested match. Algoma struck first when Hurren found the net in the 11th minute. Windsor responded with two goals midway through the second half, briefly taking the lead. But the Thunderbirds showed resilience - Cenedese calmly converted a penalty in the 78th minute to equalize, and just eight minutes later, Dhiraj Joshi buried the game-winner off a setup from Nicolas Palmeiro. Bondoc was once again reliable, recording six saves in the 3-2 victory.
Final Score: Algoma 4-1 Windsor
AUSU Player of the Game: Alessandro Cenedese
Looking Ahead: The team makes their way to Waterloo to fact Wilfred Laurier on October 4th & 5th at 3:15pm