On Saturday evening, following a 1–1 draw against the Spartans the previous night, the UBC Thunderbirds decisively defeated the University of Fraser Valley Cascades with a commanding 4–1 victory.
Maintaining their strong start to the Canada West soccer season, the Thunderbirds faced a tough challenge from the previously unbeaten Cascades. However, UBC's determination and skill ultimately prevailed.
UFV's Mateo Brazinha opened the scoring at the 33-minute mark, but UBC quickly responded with a goal from Luke Norman just before halftime, equalizing the match. Despite falling behind early, the Thunderbirds displayed resilience, refusing to let the game slip away.
In a dominant second-half performance, UBC netted three more goals. Henri Godbout, the standout player of the match, scored twice in quick succession (at 48 and 59 minutes), with his first goal deflecting off a UFV player. As the game progressed, the Cascades struggled with fatigue and confidence, allowing the Thunderbirds to take control — Jost Hausendorf added a final goal at 89 minutes to secure the win.
“I thought we were on the better side even in the first half, we just had to finish those chances that we were missing,” said Godbout. “It's all about getting my opportunity and taking the chances I have.”
Key contributions from Eric Lajeunesse and Markus Kaiser on defence also helped cement the victory.
The win reinforces the Thunderbirds' status as a formidable team this season, showcasing their potential for continued success. But even with the team’s victory, UBC head coach Mike Mosher is still looking for improvements and believes the team can do better.
“It was just a lack of quality at times. We had chances, we got to take our chances so you know, it looked like a different team I think during the second half because that was there to be had all day.”
“We think we are one of the best teams in the country and in the bench, that’s what I said, 'So go and show me, go and show me on the second half,'” said Mosher about how the team’s determination increased drastically throughout the game.
On Friday, the Thunderbirds will play the University of Lethbridge Pronghorns, at 7 p.m. at Thunderbird Stadium.
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