Lethbridge, AB - For the first time since 1971 the UBC Thunderbirds men's hockey team has clinched a home playoff game. In the final game of the Canada West regular season, the Thunderbirds defeated Lethbridge 4-0 to finish fourth in the conference and earn home ice advantage in the opening round of the post season.

"Obviously it's a very proud moment for our team, but we're just getting started," said UBC head coach Tyler Kuntz. "I'm proud of everyone involved with UBC Men's Hockey as there has been countless contributions by alumni, supporters, administrators, coaches, trainers, and of course the players."

After a disappointing loss Friday night to the last place Pronghorns, UBC was hoping for a better start Saturday night. 8:16 into the opening frame, Nick Buonassisi got his team on the board, beating Damien Ketlo for his 11th goal of the year. Cole Wilson and Anthony Bardaro picked up helpers. The Thunderbirds outshot Lethbridge 10-5 in the first period to lead 1-0 after 20 minutes.

With just under five minutes remaining in the second period, UBC created a little breathing room courtesy of Luke Lockhart, who made a nifty move to find himself alone in front of the net and he would not miss, potting his ninth goal of the year and giving the visitors a 2-0 lead through 40 minutes of action.

UBC continued to press in the third period, converting on the man advantage as Neil Manning scored his first goal of the season and more importantly putting the Thunderbirds up 3-0 with just under 12 minutes remaining. Joe Antilla added his fourth goal of the season off a flurry in front to make it a 4-0 final.

Eric Williams was solid in net making 27 saves for his first career CIS shutout. Ketlo suffered the loss giving up all four goals on 29 shots.

UBC finished 1-for-2 on the power play, while Lethbridge went 0-for-4.

"I thought everyone played real hard and credit to Lethbridge who played a strong game as well," said Kuntz. "For whatever reason we are a very resilient team that has learned plenty of hard lessons over the course of this season. It was nice to see the team respond tonight and get the win."

The Thunderbirds (13-10-5) finished fourth overall in the Canada West and will host the Manitoba Bisons (15-13-0) in the quarter-finals in three weeks time. The entire conference goes on hiatus while the Canada West represents Canada at the 2015 Winter Universiade in Spain. Game times are still to be determined for the best of three series scheduled for the weekend of February 20-22.

"Three weeks off is what it is," said Kuntz. "Everyone has to do it. We would rather that than the alternative. We'll make it work."