The Waterloo field hockey team put forth a valiant effort to upset the Guelph Gryphons on Saturday afternoon in the OUA semifinals but fell just short by a score of 2-1.

The match was back and forth, as each team struggled to keep possession. The Warriors tried to get off to an early lead when Melissa Lewis (Waterloo/) (Waterloo, ON) broke away from the pack, but was interrupted by Gryphon goalkeeper, Kaye McLagan (Mitchell, ON). The Gryphons were awarded a stroke and third-year forward, Brittany Seidler (Oliver, BC) took full advantage, securing the lead for Guelph 1-0 in the first half.

The Warriors turned up the heat in the second half, attacking the Gryphon defence with full force, but were faced with a confident Gryphon defencive line and outstanding goalkeeping. Waterloo's efforts would pay off in the 49th minute when Lewis wound up and scored for the Warriors, tying the game 1-1.

The Gryphons quickly rallied back, and with encouragement from an excited crowd, secure the game winning goal when Guelph player of the game, Seidler came face-to-face with Waterloo goalkeep, Bronwen Clayfield-Jewett (Waterloo/) (Waterloo, ON). Seidler used her smarts, faked out the keep, and popped the ball over her head and into the back of the net.

The Warriors would attempt a come back, but were unsuccessful even after pulling their keeper to have the one man advantage on the field.  

The Western Mustangs and the Warriors will fight for bronze tomorrow (Oct. 30) at Varsity Field, while the Varsity Blues will once again face the Gryphons in the OUA Championships, at 12:00 p.m.