The Celts prepared for the start of their 2021 season with their Red vs White intrasquad scrimmage Saturday. The Red team took the victory with a 2-0 performance over the White team.
"This was a great opportunity for all of our guys to play and to compete and for the coaching staff to see how the guys do in an actual competitive environment with referees and unforms." St. Thomas head coach Ian Clerihew said after the match. "I thought everyone actually did really well and we got to see everyone, that's the most important thing. We haven't played in a competitive match for 11 months so to have that was incredible and we needed that."
The first half saw intense defensive effort from both squads, until Heiko Leinweber sunk a shot from just inside the penalty box at the 33rd minute. His goal, which was assisted by Luis Bencomo, put the Red team up 1-0 heading into the half.
The start of second half mimicked that of the first. Both teams had opportunities to score, yet the Celts defense prevailed. The Red team was able to put the nail in the coffin when Kelvin Cardona crossed the ball into the final third with Leinweber closing in on it for his second goal of the game. This extended their lead to 2-0 at the 77th minute.
It was a completive match, with the Red team ultimately having the upper hand. They not only had the momentum for the majority of the game but also recorded more shots on goal.
"We play an enormously big match this next Saturday against HBU. That is the ultimate test, we have to do well, we plan to do well and that is when all the hard work hopefully pays off. I expect us to be absolutely flying when we start things on Saturday," said Coach Clerihew.
The Celts return to action Saturday when they face HBU in their season opener. Kickoff is scheduled for 6 p.m.
