BY SCOTT
HADDOW
Like two competing elks, the Sudbury Panhellenic Women's team
and the North York Wolves are going to crash heads and lock
horns this weekend during the biggest game of the season for
both clubs.
The squads enter Saturday's contest undefeated. The Wolves are
first overall in Regional Central standings with a record of 12
wins, two ties and no losses. Sudbury is breathing down their
necks with a record of 11 wins and three ties. Just two points
separate the two clubs.
 
Game time in North York is high noon. The teams fought to a
tough 3-3 draw the last time they met in June.
Sudbury had a rare weekend off last week, and is charged up
for the battle for first place.
"The North York Wolves are the team to beat," said fullback
Miranda Basso. "This is definitely going to be an intense game.
I know we are up for the challenge and that's what makes it
exciting."
The Wolves have torched opposing teams for 60 goals, most in
the league, while only allowing 10. Sudbury has scored 30 goals
for and allowed 11. Defence is going to be pivotal.
"We have to play a strong defensive game," said Basso. "We
can't take any chances near our net...it's too risky. This team
is fast, so it's best if we keep our passes quick and simple."
Having an undefeated record keeps the women focused.
"[Being undefeated] means our team has been connecting well
on the field," said Basso. "It's important to keep our
abilities throughout each game to maintain our strength as a
team."
Even a loss wouldn't derail the Panhellenic Express.
"Sooner or later, the team will lose in regulation play, but
I expect when it happens, it will just help the team to
reconfigure and adapt so it can have the tactics and approach
they need to improve," said head coach Joe Persi in an
interview earlier this season.
The ladies are proud of their accomplishments.
"We have proved a team from the north is capable of
competing against teams from the south with exceptional
results. I think we are always underestimated. Our team has
shown Sudbury has something to offer when it comes to women's
soccer. It's great."
The women also play Sunday, versus the North York Cougars. Game time is 12 noon.
