The UBC Thunderbirds continued their exemplary form and defeated the Saskatchewan Huskies 4–0 in an eventful Sunday game at Thunderbird Stadium.
The T-Birds looked strong and created opportunities early on in the game, including two free kicks in the first five minutes. They almost secured their first goal when Victory Shumbusho’s eighth-minute shot landed just wide of the post. Thomas Gardner continued UBC’s attack with a resounding free kick, but his shot was blocked by Huskies keeper Jaron Slopinski.
After many tight chances, Eric Lajeunesse swiftly evaded the Saskatchewan defence and perfectly timed a close-range shot into the net. The first-year defender from Ottawa made great use of his footwork to earn his first-ever Canada West goal.
UBC’s second goal came just six minutes later when Shumbusho flicked a long ball from Gardner over Slopinski’s shoulder. Garnder was quick to anticipate Shumbusho’s run and lofted the ball over the last two defenders, giving Shumbusho the opportunity to chip the ball over the keeper. With a strong 2–0 lead and a massive nine shots on target, UBC marched confidently into the end of the first half.
The Thunderbirds made five substitutions in the second half and continued to dominate the play while maintaining a much-valued clean sheet. In the 86th minute, first-year midfielder Asvin Chauhan and second-year striker Sebastian Dzikowski scored in quick succession, powering UBC to a massive 4–0 win. The victory marked Axel Lennselius’ first clean sheet and UBC’s second this season.
“We've got quite a few weapons and you get guys like [Chauhan, Tristan Nkoghe and Dzikowski] coming off the bench, and they got two of the goals,” said head coach Mike Mosher, emphasizing the depth and diversity of abilities in the team. “We do feel we can get our team out in a multitude of ways,” he added.
Mosher’s team will be aiming to channel their confidence from Sunday’s win towards their next clash against the University of Northern British Columbia on Friday, September 30 at the Thunderbird Stadium.
“It all starts with another good weekend of practicing. The guys have been quite good, the energy level in training has been really good. Just the overall attitude, energy has been really right positive throughout the year,” said Mosher. “And you know, that’s where it starts. It all starts with practicing.”