The Matchup

 
With a pair of losses opening their 2016-17 CIS season, the UBC Thunderbirds women's rugby team (0-2) will need to secure a win this weekend against Alberta (1-0) to avoid remaining near the bottom of the Canada West league standings.

The 'Birds will have home-field advantage for the third consecutive game, which commences at 1 p.m. (PT) on Sunday, October 2 at Wolfson Field.

The T-Birds have an inauspicious history when it comes to playing the Pandas, who enter the weekend ranked 10th in Canada. Since 2009-10 UBC has been unable to triumph over Alberta, making a potential win this weekend that much more significant. The Pandas, who have won 10 Canada West rugby championships since 1999, will likely be UBC's toughest challenge of the season.
 

Last Action

 
Despite being outscored 83-27 in their opening two bouts, the Thunderbirds have showed potential in both outings. A strong first half against Victoria and a reignited second half against Calgary last weekend have given glimpses into what UBC is capable of.



Alberta are fresh off a 39-33 victory over Lethbridge (0-1) in their season-opener. They will have a busy weekend ahead, taking on No. 9 Victoria this Friday before stopping in Vancouver.

 

By the Numbers

 
4 - Number of T-Birds who have contributed to the team's five tries this season. Winger Ciara Malone leads her team with two.
 
1 - Number of successful UBC conversions this season. Improved accuracy between the posts should help the 'Birds, especially in low-scoring contests.
 
 

Players To Watch

Mackenzie Lee (#12, inside centre) - Lee was on fire last Sunday against the Dinos. Her late-game try and series of crucial tackles were highlights of the match.

Kassi Welch (#24, Scrum-half) - The third year scrum-half ran in UBC's opening try last weekend, shifting momentum in her team's favour.
 
 

Coach's Take

UBC head coach Dean Murten acknowledges some of the difficulties his club has faced in the past against the Pandas, but feels strongly that the Thunderbirds are capable of challenging Alberta this Sunday. 

"It's going to be another tough challenge. We haven't had the best results in previous years, but i think we're getting better and better. It's a must win to stay in Canada West competition. We've got to stand up and defend extremely well," he said.
 
Murten also feels that there is a lot of talent on his team, with both rookie and veteran players showing great promise.

"We have some good, young rookies who can stop them from scoring. I really want the senior players to step up as well. We just need to get the ball to the right people at the right time," said Murten. "If we can perform like that, we could cause an upset."