Ionadi’s Double Leads Hitmen To Victory
Jul 14, 2003 Author: Brampton Hitmen

On a beautiful Sunday night at Victoria Park Stadium the Brampton Hitmen extended their 2003 home unbeaten streak by defeating the Durham Flames 3-2.

The game was marred by a number of offensive chances from both teams. The Flames and Hitmen engaged in a sea saw battle that saw them trade goal mouth opportunities right until the final whistle.

Brampton Hitmen captain Phil Ionadi led the attack with two picturesque goals. Brampton trailed 1-0 until Ionadi found some open space in the box and converted a cross with a mid air volley to level the score. In the second half, the Hitmen took the lead when striker Kurt Mella pounced on a loose ball in the crease. With his second goal, Phil Ionadi put the Hitmen up for good when he converted a set piece from just outside the box. Phil has been on a torrid pace this year and now has three goals in five games so far this year.

The quick pace of the match led the Hitmen to make a number of substitutions in the second half to keep the squad fresh. However, the Durham Flames were able to score late in the game and gave the faithful Hitmen fans somewhat of a scare. The Brampton Hitmen did not want to squander an opportunity to get all three points at home. “A tie would have been devastating for us after we worked so hard to get ahead by two goals”, said Steve Nijjar.

At home the Brampton Hitmen square off next Sunday, July 20 at 7:30 pm against cross town rivals Toronto Croatia. This match is pivotal for both teams as Croatia currently sit in last place while the Hitmen are looking to catch Hamilton for top spot in the West Division. Steve Nijjar expects this match to be a battle right from the opening whistle.

Toronto Croatia will be looking to make amends for their loss to the Hitmen earlier this season and are hoping to rekindle last years form which saw them finish first in the West Division. Steve Nijjar had this to say about their upcoming match, “we are not taking Croatia lightly. They have a big strong team with a number of quality players. All you have to do is look at the awards and accomplishments they received in 2002. It is imperative that we stay on track and continue to move up the standings.”

Allan Schultz
Director of Media Relations

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