In a match filled with intensity and momentum swings, Ottawa TFC emerged victorious over Oakville SC with a 2–1 win in the U15 Girls Gary Miller Charity Shield Final at the Zanchin Automotive Soccer Centre.
Ottawa came out strong in the opening minutes, applying consistent offensive pressure. In the sixth minute, a loose ball through midfield gave Oakville’s Kylie Gilmore an opportunity to strike, but her effort went straight into the hands of the Ottawa keeper.
In the 11 minute, Ottawa’s No. 13 Lilian Gauthier delivered a well-worked cross to the back post, just out of reach for No. 12 Sophia Tsang, who was unable to break the deadlock.
The midfield battle intensified as the half progressed, with both teams fighting hard for possession but unable to find the final pass needed to open the scoring.
It didn’t take long to break the deadlock, as just two minutes into the second half, Oakville’s No. 16 Olivia Pereira fired a shot from well outside the box that managed to trickle past Ottawa keeper Brianna Smith on what appeared to be a seemingly harmless play.
Shortly after, in the 52 minute, Ottawa was awarded a penalty following a controversial handball call on Oakville’s Emily Thorpe. Lilian Gauthier stepped up and calmly converted from the spot with a well-taken finish to bring Ottawa level.
With under 10 minutes remaining and Ottawa putting consistent pressure on Oakville's defence, Ottawa's Gauthier was able to bury the rebound for her second of the match and give her team the lead.
Ottawa held firm in the closing moments, showing composure and resilience to see out the match. The final whistle confirmed a hard-fought 2–1 victory, crowning Ottawa TFC the U15 Girls Gary Miller Charity Shield champions after a spirited comeback performance.
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