VANCOUVER, B.C. — The UBCO Heat women's soccer team (2-5-2) dropped a 4-0 decision to the U SPORTS No. 1-ranked UBC Thunderbirds (9-0-0) at Thunderbird Stadium on Friday.
The first half commenced with the Heat's defensive efforts prominently led by goalkeeper
Talia Gagnon, who registered multiple saves against UBC's early offensive pressure. Gagnon successfully thwarted several attempts from UBC, including shots by Sienna Gibson and Ella Sunde. Despite the Heat's defensive resilience, UBC broke through in the 40th minute with Ava Alexander scoring, assisted by Jayda Thompson, marking the only goal of the half. The half closed with UBC leading 1-0.
The second half began with UBC extending their lead early, as Alexander scored in the 46th minute, assisted by Sienna Gibson. The Heat's Gagnon made a crucial save shortly after, but UBC capitalized on a penalty kick by Sunde in the 49th minute, increasing their advantage to three goals.
After the Thunderbirds added a fourth, UBCO responded with a series of offensive efforts, highlighted by shots from
Jaidyn McGrath and
Neala Peters, but they were unable to find the back of the net.
Despite several corner opportunities towards the end of the half, the Heat could not break through UBC's defence which extended their shutout streak to nine games.
Gagnon recorded seven saves in the match, facing 11 shots on goal.
The next challenge for UBCO takes them to Victoria, B.C., where they will face off against the Victoria Vikes on Saturday, October 4. The match is set for a 5 p.m. start as they look to secure a crucial win on the road.
