KELOWNA, B.C. — The UBCO Heat women's soccer team (4-5-2) defeated the UNBC Timberwolves (0-12-1) by a convincing score of 4-1 at Nonis Sports Field on Saturday. 

The Heat took the lead with a first-half goal and expanded their advantage with three more goals in the second half. UBCO's dominant performance was highlighted by their 27 shots, 19 of which were on target, overwhelming the UNBC defence despite 15 saves by their goalkeeper.

The first half commenced with UBCO applying offensive pressure early, as Maria Georgacacos and Abigail Taneda each tested UNBC's goalkeeper Johanna Rathke within the first few minutes. Despite multiple offside calls against them, the Heat continued to press, with Katie Scarth and Taneda forcing additional saves from Rathke. UBCO maintained the momentum with frequent attempts and corner kicks, while Talia Gagnon made a crucial save off a header from UNBC's Madeleine Heal to keep the visitors scoreless.

UBCO's persistence paid off in the 35th minute when an own goal by UNBC, off a dangerous cross from Taneda, granted the home side a 1-0 lead. The Heat sustained their attacking efforts through to the end of the half, with Nina Louis' attempt being saved just before the break. The period concluded with UBCO leading 1-0, having effectively controlled the first half of play.

The second half commenced with UBCO maintaining its offensive momentum, breaking through in the 58th minute when Scarth scored her first goal of the season. Shortly after, the Heat doubled their advantage with Annabelle Walker finding the back of the net in the 65th minute, assisted by Haden Thomas, bringing the score to 3-0.

Continuing their assertive play, UBCO extended the lead to 4-0 in the 73rd minute when Georgacacos scored her second goal of the season. Despite a final-minute goal by UNBC's Heal, assisted by Kate Rattee, the Heat closed the match with a decisive 4-1 lead.

Scarth scored one goal and led UBCO with four shots, including three on goal. Walker added to the scoreboard with a goal, converting both of her shots on target. Georgacacos also found the back of the net, contributing seven shots, five of which were on goal. Gagnon played 90 minutes in goal, recording four saves on five shots faced.

Looking ahead, UBCO will look to sweep the season series against the Timberwolves when the two teams meet for the third and final time this year on Sunday, October 12. The match is set to kick off at 1 p.m. at Nonis Sports Field.

Prior to kick off, the team will recognize their five graduating seniors, including Taneda, Gagnon Annika Gross, Sydney Kolodziej and Jaidyn McGrath.

Game Notes:
- Scarth's second-half goal was the first of her UBCO career
- The Heat extended their win streak against UNBC to three games
- The Heat posted wins in back-to-back games for the second time this season
- UBCO moves to within a single point of the Thompson Rivers WolfPack for the fourth and final playoff spot in the Canada West Pacific division