Sooke Celtic FC took a major leap forward in its pursuit of a spot in the Jackson Cup final with a thrilling win at home on Friday.
Sooke Celtic, which competes in Division 2 play in the Vancouver Island Soccer League, came away with 4-3 victory against Division 1 Nanaimo United, with Celtic Nahoa Kahakauwila scoring in the final minute of regulation play.
“Nahoa ran into the crowd after he scored the goal,” said Sooke Celtic assistant coach Pete McKay. “That got a great reaction, with about 30 people jumping up and down and high-fiving and hugging each other. We had more than 300 fans come out for the game, and set a record with six chainsaws.”
Next up for the Celtic in Division 2 play is a home game at the Log at Fred Milne Field on Friday (March 1) at 7 p.m. against Lakehill FC. They return to Jackson Cup competition with the semifinal for the Jackson Cup at home against Division Vic West FC. at 7 p.m. on March 8.
The Jackson Cup is Vancouver Island Soccer League’s version of the FA Cup in England and Copa del Rey in Spain and has been contested since 1915. The current incarnation of the annual tournament pits Division 1 and 2 teams against each other for the prestigious trophy.