Langley Lions Edge Out New Westminster Navigators 2-1 with Fatima Zahra's Late Heroics
Fatima Zahra's two-goal performance powers Langley Lions to crucial 2-1 victory over New Westminster Navigators
By Taylor Morgan
LANGLEY – In a tightly contested battle that showcased determination and clutch scoring, the Langley Lions edged the New Westminster Navigators 2-1 at home on Thursday night. The win was sealed by a late one-timer from Fatima Zahra, capping off a remarkable two-goal night that proved the difference in a game marked by relentless shots and momentum swings.
The Lions dominated offensively, firing 45 shots with a disciplined approach despite 27 turnovers, while the Navigators pushed back with 31 shots but couldn’t capitalize nearly as efficiently.
Early in the first period, the intensity was palpable as both teams exchanged heavy hits and defensive stands, with goalkeeper Sigrid Magnusson of Langley standing tall, saving 24 shots and holding a 96.0% save rate. New Westminster’s goalie Keisha Thompson also put on a strong showing with 30 saves albeit allowing two crucial goals.
The first breakthrough came at the 27th minute when Grigor Dimitrov’s slap shot, assisted by Elena Costa, gave New Westminster a brief lead. However, the momentum shifted in the third period.
At a critical juncture late in the game, Langley’s Fatima Zahra showcased her sharpshooting and timing by first capitalizing on a rebound and then netting a precise one-timer, assisted by Andrei Markov and Elif Kaya, which ultimately decided the game.
Postgame, Zahra reflected, “We knew we had to keep pressing. Our teamwork tonight made all the difference. I’m proud of how we fought for every puck.” Coach David Norton praised the defensive resilience, “Our goalies stood firm, and Fatima delivered when we needed her most. It was a hard-fought win but absolutely deserved.”
Key Notes:
- Fatima Zahra led the Lions with 8 shots on goal and all 2 goals scored.
- Elif Kaya contributed with a game-high 15 shots and 1 assist.
- Langley outshot New Westminster 45 to 31, showcasing offensive pressure.
- Goalie Sigrid Magnusson posted 24 saves with a 96.0% save percentage.
- New Westminster’s Grigor Dimitrov scored the lone goal for Navigators with 6 shots on net.