The women’s soccer team will compete in its second consecutive CIS Championship after a penalty kick win over the Ottawa Gee-Gees in the national semifinal. Midfielder Chantal McFetridge scored the winning goal for the Gaels to edge the Gee-Gees 3-2.

The Gaels beat the Gee-Gees twice during the regular season, but the semifinal was tied 0-0 after 90 minutes of regulation.

The Gaels had chances at the start, but couldn’t convert. McFetridge missed an early shot in front of the Gee-Gees’ goal. The game was tied 0-0 at halftime.

In the second half, the Gee-Gees went on the attack. The Gaels countered with some more chances of their own, but still couldn’t score.

The Gee-Gees came out strong in extra time and nearly ended the game with seven minutes remaining. But goalkeeper Chantel Marson made a crucial save.

The Gaels’ best chance in overtime came in the dying minutes. Midfielder Alexis McKinty set striker Jackie Tessier up in front of the net. But Tessier shot too quickly and Ottawa goalkeeper Cynthia Leblanc made the save, forcing the game into penalty kicks.

The Gee-Gees shot first, but the Gaels ultimately won after five rounds. Defender Mikyla Kay and Tessier converted two for the Gaels, and McFetridge sealed the win. Marson made three saves on five penalty kicks to secure the victory.

The Gaels will have a chance to defend last season’s CIS championship title tomorrow at 4 p.m. They will play the winner of the second semifinal between the Montreal Carabins and the McGill Martlets. SNN Canada will broadcast the game.