The defending winter champs needed overtime to beat Lakeshore in last year’s finals. This time around, they were more than happy to settle for the tie.

“I find the level and intensity is higher this year,” explains Mojo assistant coach Mike Agozzino, who characterizes the 1-1 draw against the FA Division’s finest as tight, tactical and fair. “Our girls are better and stronger than last year but the games are all close. So to me that says most teams have gotten stronger as well.”

While they remain undefeated a third of the way into the season, Mojo might still be feeling a little short of breath in what remains a very claustrophobic playoff and title race.

POTG: Agozzino reserved his highest praise for forward Kelly Ann Hillario – lone goal scorer of both Lakeshore encounters in question – while also highlighting the defensive work from both sides.

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