John KelseyLast year, a very young Martlets soccer team, which had only one fourth-year player, made it to the QUSL semifinals. This year, the team’s goal was to go to nationals. They started out on the right path with nine wins and five ties, dominating the other teams in their league, destroying teams like UQTR 5-0, UQAM 4-0, and University of Sherbrooke 5-1.
In the QUSL semifinal, the Martlets played Laval, who they had already defeated 4-2 earlier in the season. Unfortunately, like last year, their season ended in the semis as they lost 2-1. It was a heartbreaking defeat for the Martlets. They were ranked third in the country and were looking like serious challengers for the National Championship. Not making it to the CIS Championships was obviously a major let down for the talented squad.
Alexandra Morin-Boucher was honoured as an All-Canadian at the Women’s CIS Soccer Gala and led the QUSL with 11 goals. Also honoured as an All-Canadian, was first-year goalie Victoria Muccilli. Throughout the season she had four shut-outs, and only allowed six goals out of 43 shots.
While missing nationals was a disapointment, their season can’t be seen as a failure. They had an incredible regular season and were clearly one of the best teams in the nation.
The Martlets are still a very young team team with obvious potential. They are being recognized as one of the favourites to win next year’s nationals, which will be held at home in Montreal.
MVP: Alexandra Morin-Boucher
Player to Watch: Victoria Muccilli
