The Matchup
Only three points separate the Canada West leading Trinity Western Spartans (7-2-1) and the No. 2 UBC Thunderbirds men's soccer team (5-1-4), making their mid-season matchup this Saturday all the more important. The 'Birds will embark on their second consecutive weekend road trip, facing the struggling UFV Cascades (3-4-1) on Friday, September 30 at 8:00pm (PT) in Abbotsford and the Spartans on Saturday, October 1 at 7:15pm (PT) in Langley.
UBC has hosted both clubs this season, defeating Trinity Western 3-0 and going nil-nil against UFV. The Spartans have struggled in the past against UBC, as their last goal against the Thunderbirds recorded in October 2014.
UFV has proved to be more of a challenge for UBC, with their previous two contests ending in low scoring draws.
Last Action
After six games at home, the T-Birds headed to Alberta last weekend to face cross-division rivals Mount Royal and Lethbridge. Three consecutive scoreless games at home made UBC's 2-0 win over Mount Royal a welcome return to the scoreboard, while a 3-2 loss to Lethbridge the following evening marked their first defeat of the season.
Trinity Western went 1-1 during their Prairie road games last weekend against Winnipeg and Saskatchewan. While their seven wins make the Spartans are a clear threat on the field, they have only managed to score more than two goals once this season.
The Cascades had a promising 3-1-1 start to the year, but have lost their last three matches. They have only managed a single goal in their last five outings.
By the Numbers
153 – UBC's CIS leading shot total this season. Trinity Western sits in a close second with 152.
7 – Seasons since Trinity Western last defeated the Thunderbirds. The Spartans' success this season indicates their potential to secure the elusive win.
Players to Watch
Kerman Pannu (M, #13) – Netted both of UBC's goals in their 2-0 win over the Cougars last weekend. He also has 29 shots this season, good for seventh in
Canada.
Bryan Fong (D, #19) – The senior defender scored the 'Birds second goal and landed four shots-on-goal in the team's 3-2 loss against Lethbridge.
