With one game left in the 2019 regular season, the Lambton Lions control their own destiny.
Back at the start of the season, it was tough to envision the men’s soccer program being in the position they are now. Without a win to their name through the month of September, it looked as though the Lions were going to miss out on the playoffs yet again.
Then, their fortunes changed, and they changed in a hurry.
Due to a rules violation, the Lions were awarded a 1-0 win over the Conestoga Condors in their regular season opener. Having the win on their record gave the Lions’ playoff hopes a pulse, and the team has since revived their chances ahead of their regular season finale.
A 2-0 win over the Redeemer Royals on October 10th game the Lions seven points for the year, and it propelled them into a playoff spot. The Lions control their own destiny in the final game of the season, as a win at home over the St. Clair Saints would secure a playoff appearance for Lambton.
If the game doesn’t go the way of the Lions, they will need some help to get into the post-season.
The Lions find themselves in a battle with the Mohawk Mountaineers and Niagara College Knights for the final two playoff spots in the West Division. Only two teams can make it in, and with three teams vying for two spots, the final day of the regular season promises to be an exciting one.
Here’s a look at the remaining games for each team, all of which will take place on October 16th:
Lambton Lions v. St. Clair Saints (5 p.m.)
Niagara Knights v. Redeemer Royals (8 p.m.)
Mohawk Mountaineers v. Humber Hawks (8 p.m.)
A win for the Lions would put to rest any nerves and solidify their spot in the post-season. A loss or tie means Lambton will have to play the waiting game, as their contest will be finished before the other two get started.
Here’s how the playoff picture could shake out on Wednesday, as nine different scenarios could occur:
If Lambton WINS, there’s only one outcome:
- Lambton WINS = Lions are IN
If Lambton TIES, four possible scenarios can play out:
- Lambton TIE + Niagara OR Mohawk LOSS = Lions are IN
- Lambton TIE + Mohawk LOSS + Niagara TIE = Lions are IN
- Lambton TIE + Niagara TIE = Lions are IN
- Lambton TIE + Niagara WIN + Mohawk TIE/WIN = Lions are OUT
If Lambton LOSES, four possible scenarios can play out:
- Lambton LOSS + Niagara LOSS = Lions are IN
- Lambton LOSS + Niagara WIN = Lions are OUT
- Lambton LOSS + Niagara TIE + Mohawk WIN = Lions are OUT
- Niagara holds the tiebreaker over Lambton (5-1 WIN)
- Lambton LOSS + Niagara TIE + Mohawk LOSS = Lions are OUT
- Niagara holds the tiebreaker over Lambton (5-1 Win)
- Mohawk holds the tiebreaker over Lambton (Goal Differential)
For the Lions, it’s better to keep it simple: win and you’re in.
Lambton is in the driver’s seat heading into Wednesday, and they have full control of their playoff aspirations. Anything other than a win puts them at the mercy of both the Mountaineers and Knights.
Regardless, Wednesday night will surely be one that don’t want to miss. Be sure to come out and support the Lions as they fight for their playoff lives in their regular season finale at the Lambton College Soccer Field.