July 4, 2015 League 1 Ontario--Sigma FC vs Sanjaxx Lions (from League 1 Ontario press release)

  
Sigma F.C. 2 - Sanjaxx Lions 1
. Mon Jul 6 
Written By: Staff, League1  

Sanjaxx appeared to be on the way to a much needed win during matchweek ten play, after a first half injury 
time goal by Dawit Tekic (45 + 4'), but Sigma pressed forward and ultimately secured the comeback victory 
following tallies from Alex Halis (66') and Kwame Awuah (87'). 

"In this game we wanted to start out quick and really go after our opponent as we felt an early goal would 
be important," said Sigma head coach Bobby Smyrniotis.

"In the first 15 minutes we made four clear opportunities on goal, with [Alex] Halis scuffing his effort 
at a wide open net, and Justin Stodart hitting the crossbar from inside the opponent's six-yard box. 
This would have been crucial to how the game would play out. Although we had many chances and the opponent 
was far from our goal they opened the scoring in the 45th on a penalty call."

Tekic dispatched the penalty for Sanjaxx, and the visitors went into the half with a 1-0 lead. 

"Being down 1-0 at half was not what our guys expected, so we asked them to really increase the tempo 
of the match at all moments on an opponent who was content with soaking up as much pressure as possible," 
said Smyrniotis.

Sanjaxx's keeper Matthew Zaikos was chosen as the clear MVP by both sets of coaches, with Sanjaxx head 
coach Laza Lowe agreeing with Smyrniotis assessment of his player.

"Zaikos made some very good saves and was very busy on the day," said Smyrniotis. "We put 16 shots 
on goal, seven of which were top opportunities to score - he was very good."

Sigma eventually got the equalizer from the boot of University of Syracuse's Alex Halis, but Smyrniotis 
was keen to illuminate the efforts of a couple other integral players.

"Richmond Laryea was a very important player in the midfield on the day," he said. "He is excellent 
to watch on the ball and his ability to push forward through midfield was excellent. He was a handful 
for the opponent and drew two penalties, one of which was not called."

"Kwame Awuah scored our game winner, and was a constant threat down the left side for us, especially 
in the second half," he added. 

Sanjaxx and Sigma will need to hit reset on this contest for matchweek eleven, when both sides match 
up at Sanjaxx's home ground of Esther Shiner Stadium, Sunday July 12, 9 p.m.

back to 2015 League 1 Ontario Men's index

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