KELOWNA, B.C. — The UBCO Heat women's soccer team struck first but couldn't hold off Mansha Sidhu and the U SPORTS No. 9-ranked Trinity Western Spartans, dropping a 4-1 decision on Friday at Nonis Sports Field.
The Spartans controlled much of the attack, outshooting the Heat 14-7 and putting nine attempts on target to the Heat's three.
Katie Scarth made her lone shot count after a fortunate block landed at her feet, finding the back of the net for her first goal of the season. Between the posts,
Allyson Ford went the full 90 minutes and turned aside five shots.
Sidhu was the difference-maker for the Spartans, turning all three of her shots into goals for a hat trick, including a deep free-kick placed under the bar that ended up being the game-winner. Charis Wardrope made the most of her lone chance, while Sophie Crowther and Veronica Walter each were able to set up a goal. Crowther put one of her three shots on target.
Scarth wasted little time, breaking the deadlock in the fourth minute to give the Heat an early edge and get the crowd behind them on home turf.
The Heat's time on top didn't last long as the Spartans responded with three unanswered goals to take a 3-1 lead into the break. The Spartans dictated forward play in the opening 45 minutes, outshooting the Heat 9-4 and forcing Ford into three saves, while the Heat earned three corners and tested Yasmine Pahal once.
Trinity Western extended their lead in the 56th minute and continued to press, outshooting UBCO 5-3 after the break and putting three attempts on target to the Heat's one. Ford stood tall with two saves in the frame to keep the deficit from growing, but they ultimately couldn't find another way past the Spartan defence.
The Heat will look to bounce back quickly at home as they return to Nonis Sports Field to host the Victoria Vikes on Saturday, Sept. 26, at 4 p.m.
