Langley United beats Port Moody rival

Langley United came through when it counted, beating Lordco Gunners of Port Moody 5-2 in men’s premier soccer to win their second Pakenham Cup in three years Saturday in Port Moody.

“Today was all about team. We needed and received overwhelming support from every player to put our team first,” said head coach Rob Keam. “This [is an] excellent win for Langley United.”  

As recently as last week, Port Moody secured first place in the league by a single point over Langley United and in head-to-head games this year were 2-1 over the season. Both teams had almost identical records for goals scored and against, setting up for a thrilling Cup final.

“Coming into this game our team was very excited to play Port Moody,” said Keam. “Knowing Port Moody had just won the league over us by one point and we had not given PM our best game for the last two games after beating them 5-2 early in the year.”

It didn’t take long for Langley to come alive, with the first goal scored in the first minute of play by United’s Rhys Volkenant, assisted by Tyson Keam, off a corner kick. After Port Moody tied it up, Brent Wantke with an assist by Mitchell Rohla, scored at the 75-minute mark to take the lead.

Extra time goals (95 min.) were scored by Tyson Keam, who stole the ball at midfield and took a shot from 25 yards out for the goal; (103 min.) Deven Gilroy (assisted by Paul Ballard) beat the keeper and headed it into the net and (110 min.) Colin Jones (assisted by Tyson Keam) beat the goalie to the rebound and put the ball into the top of the net.

The MVP of the Pakenham Cup was Tyson Keam.

“I have to admit the pressure was on us a bit as our other two Langley United teams won their cup final matches today and we knew we had to do our part for the club to have a great day,” added Keam.  

“I am very pleased for the guys winning their second trophy of the year and beating a very good Port Moody team, who is very disciplined, well run and very well coached.”

Notable performances mentioned by the coach included goal keeper Colton Keam for being quick off his line, eliminating any threats and for his quick counter attack play; the back line of Brayden Volkenant, Rhys Volkenant, Brent Wantke and William Folstat for keeping the speedy Port Moody forwards in check all game; midfielder Tyson Keam who ran miles and was always a threat to score  when the ball was at his feet; Paul Ballard with his vast professional experience who came into the game and quickly organized the teams’ defensive shape and attacking play within minutes of his presence; Colin Jones and Deven Gilroy for play at each end of the field and excellent second efforts; Mitchell Rohla, midfield general and creativity in midfield; Mike Perry, Liam Mcallister and Carlos Del Aguila for excellent discipline and Zak Yeoman’s for putting team first due to his injury.

“Winning the Pakenham Cup was definitely one of our goals but qualifying for provincials always is our major goal as only the top 16 teams in the province qualify,” said Keam.

“It is very rewarding for the many players on our team that have come through the Langley United youth system and although [many] have gone off to play at university, professionals have returned to play and support their home club. To me this shows huge character and understanding of giving back to your club and community.”