Rovers FC celebrate Latin Night in doubleheader this Saturday

News release - Simcoe County Rovers FC

Simcoe County Rovers FC are preparing for Latin Night this Saturday at J.C. Massie field versus Guelph United.

The men kick things off at 2 p.m. and the women play at 6 p.m., and the match-day will be broadcast by Rogers TV and KOOL FM will be on site to add to the festivities.

This will be the second Latin-themed night the team has celebrated. Fans arriving with a Latin flag can get free admission at the gate. Local favourite Mexican House will be on site serving up mouth-watering tacos before both matches. They will be on-site at J.C. Massie Field from 1.30 to 3.30 p.m. and from 5.30 to 7.30 p.m. To cap it all off, there will be a player meet and greet and photo opportunity at the end of the women’s and men’s games for our amazing fans.

Rovers FC COO, Will DeVellis, is excited to welcome the community and partake in the festivities.

“We hope the community comes out to support the men’s and women’s teams this weekend in what should be a fun and interactive doubleheader," said DeVellis. "We continue to build our presence in Barrie and welcome all to come join us.”

The defending champions Rovers are struggling in League play, having tied twice and lost three in the first five games. Last Saturday at home the team had a 1-0 lead against league leaders Burlington going into the second half but lost 2-1. On a positive note, veteran winger Shawn Claud Lawson made his 50th appearance for the club in the match. He becomes the 1st player in Rover’s history to play 50 games for the club.

"I think it’s great to reach this milestone with the club with great teammates and staff along the way," said Lawson. "I’m looking forward to pushing the standards and culture of this club."

Some redemption came Tuesday night as the team headed to Guelph for a League Cup game with a chance to get to the quarterfinals of the elimination tournament. After going down 1-0 after 15 minutes, the Rovers responded with a goal from winger Shawn Claud Lawson right before half. The Rovers came out of halftime a determined group looking to score from the opening whistle. Their efforts were rewarded when striker Jevontae Layne scored in the 53rd minute giving the Rovers a 2-1 lead which they would not relinquish. With the goal, Layne becomes the all-time record goal scorer for the club having tallied 18 since his arrival.

“It’s an honour to become Rovers' all-time goal scorer after the club and coaching staff put their faith in me for 2 seasons to lead the attack," said Layne.

"I’m happy I can return the favour by scoring big goals for the club. The team showed lots of heart and grit to get the win against Guelph and I’m sure we can build from that performance week in and week out moving forward."

The Rovers women played their most complete game of the season last Saturday afternoon beating top three side FC London 2-1 in an exciting match. Goals in the 25th minute by Forward Holly O’Neill and midfielder Madelyn Brooke Robbins in the 44th minute saw the team through where all aspects of their game paid off.

“We have a fairly new group this year that is now coming together," said Zack Wilson Associate Women’s Sporting Director.

"The victory over London FC, one of the top sides in the league was a great example of getting our tactics right and a supreme work effort by the team. Two brilliant goals were scored as a result. Now we need to be consistent and not drop off week in and week out.”

The team ran into League1 juggernauts NDC on Wednesday night at the Ontario Soccer Centre. NDC is undefeated and unfortunately, the Rovers came up short losing 4-0.

For more information on the Simcoe County Rovers FC, including schedule details, ticket purchase options and sponsorship opportunities, visit www.roversfc.ca.

Single and group tickets to the match can be purchased by visiting www.roversfc.ca.

Banner image via Simcoe County Rovers FC