With third place in the Ontario University Athletic East division on the line, the Laurentian Lady Vees soccer team started off strong Oct. 21, taking a 2-1 lead into half-time against the Toronto Varsity Blues but had to settle for a 3-3 tie.

The Lady Vees controlled the play for much of the first half, putting continuous pressure on the Varsity Blues’ back line. Their persistence paid off as Lisa Watson tallied in the 33rd minute. After Toronto tied it up in the 40th minute, Crystal-Ann Hackett put the Lady Vees back in front just one minute later, capitalizing on a defensive gaffe by the Varsity Blues.

In the second half, Toronto struck quickly as they scored in the 47th and 49th minutes to take a 3-2 lead. With a home playoff date on the line, the Lady Vees pushed for an equalizer and were rewarded when Julie Lopez found the back of the net just three minutes before the end of the game.

The tie guarantees the Lady Vees fourth place in the OUA East and a home game against Carleton in the first round of the playoffs. Kickoff is scheduled for 2 p.m. at Laurentian Soccer Field on Oct. 24.