WATERLOO, Ont. - The Laurier Golden Hawks edged the defending U SPORTS bronze medalist York Lions 1–0 in a thrilling, hard-fought home opening match in front of a packed gathering at Ansley Alumni Field.

From the opening whistle, both teams came out flying, trading chances and pressing with energy.

Laurier looked especially eager to break through, with forward Nathan Dennis creating early danger, while goalkeeper David Carano was sharp in net to deny York opportunities.

The breakthrough came just before halftime when Golden Hawk Leonardo Takahashi capitalized on a chance in the 44th minute to score his first goal of the season. The strike gave Laurier a crucial lead and shifted momentum in their favour.

Laurier built on that energy in the second half, highlighted by Joseph Carabetta's creative footwork that repeatedly unsettled York's defence.

Substitutes also made an impact, with Mateo Kozovski nearly doubling the lead in the 83rd minute when his shot rattled the post.

York pushed late and came close when Ryan Robinson's strike hit the post in the 82nd minute, but Carano and the Laurier back line held firm.

Carano, an environmental studies major from Woodbridge, Ont., wound up making eight high-calibre saves over the course of the 90 minutes.

After the match, Laurier head coach Mario Halapir praised his team's adaptability and execution, noting that they had altered their formation from the previous game.

"Our goalkeeper David Carano was unbelievable tonight, and the boys overall did a tremendous job not only individually but as a team," Halapir said.

Carano himself emphasized the group's potential, saying the Golden Hawks are ready to turn heads.

"Get ready to see what this team can do. We've had a couple of years of rebuilding, and we are ready to show you guys what we are all about," Carano said.

Captain Sam Ghouli also highlighted the balance of leadership and new energy.

"Massive performances all around from the vets. I think they showed great leadership and, at the same time, we had some rookies come on and they made a real impact," Ghouli said.

Heading into a home-and-home with the Brock Badgers, Halapir explained how the team's focus remains simple.

"We take one game at a time… Prepare for the next team the best that we can and perform the best that we can."

Up Next:
The Golden Hawks (1-1) take on the Badgers (2-0) at Brock Alumni Field in St. Catharines on Friday September 5.

Kick off is at 8:15pm. Catch the action live on OUA.tv.