Chase Clayton vs Mount Royal, Oct. 12, 2018
Bob Frid/UBC Thunderbirds

Men's Hockey Jeff Sargeant (UBC Communications)

‘Birds put solid start to the test in Calgary

The only remaining undefeated team in the Canada West is back on the road this weekend as the No. 7 UBC Thunderbirds visit the Calgary Dinos Friday and Saturday, October 19th and 20th.

It's a battle of two very familiar foes who have played more games against each other than any other opponents over the course of the last two seasons. The Dinos have ended UBC's season in the Canada West quarter-finals two years running.

Austin Vetterl vs Mount Royal, Oct. 12, 2018

But the 2018-19 season brings a fresh slate to the rivalry and one that sees the Thunderbirds (4-0) off to their best start in 29 years, looking to make it five straight wins to start a season for the first time in their Canada West history.

The Dinos (1-2-1) have had a rough start to their season but their record is by no means indicative of what is a very talented and deep roster. Calgary will be motivated to get back to the .500 mark and even more anxious to do it against the top team in the Canada West.

Puck drop Friday is a much earlier than usual 10:00 a.m. PT for a school day crowd of what's expected to be upwards of 1,000 at Father David Bauer Arena. Saturday's game gets underway at 1:00 p.m. PT.
 

Last Action

UBC powered their way to a home opening weekend sweep of the visiting Mount Royal Cougars with 3-1 and 2-1 wins, respectively.

Crease Scramble vs Mount Royal, Oct. 12, 2018

Calgary picked up a single point in a shootout loss in Saskatoon last Friday night followed by a 3-2 defeat by the Huskies on Saturday.
 

By the Numbers

95.5 – The only thing more impressive than the 'Birds' top ranked power play is their penalty kill. UBC has allowed just one goal against on 22 shorthanded situations for a 95.5% success rate.

6 – UBC's goal differential through the first four games of the season, the best in the conference. The 'Birds have scored 14 goals, tied with Calgary and Saskatchewan for the most, while allowing a league low eight against.
 

Players to Watch

Rylan Toth (#34, G) – 3-0 to start the season, the second-year netminder leads the Canada West in wins and boasts a 2.00 goals against average and a .941 save percentage.

Rylan Toth vs Mount Royal, Oct. 13, 2018

Austin Vetterl (#17, F) – After leading the 'Birds in both goals and points last season, Vetterl is poised to do so once again as he is off to a torrid pace with a Canada West leading five goals. His six points is just one back of the league leader. The former Kootenay Ice forward scored twice in each of UBC's wins last weekend.
 

Coach's Take

The T-Birds may be enjoying their best start to the season in recent memory, but there's little to no chance of them taking anything for granted.

"Things can change real quick, the standings are still tight, it's early," said UBC head coach Sven Butenschon who feels his team is well aware of the pitfalls of easing up. "They know that if you take your foot off the gas you may not be able to find your way back. The vibe in the dressing room is good, the energy is outstanding and the execution in practice and attention to detail has been really impressive."



Facing a Calgary team that's provided fits at times for the 'Birds means being prepared to grind out a hard working, complete effort.

"They've always played us really tough," added Butenschon. "They don't give up much, they play a real disciplined, conservative game. You really got to work to get to the middle of the ice and get scoring chances. We're going to get a motivated Calgary team."
 
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Players Mentioned

Rylan Toth

#34 Rylan Toth

Goaltender
6' 2"
2nd
Austin Vetterl

#17 Austin Vetterl

Forward
6' 0"
4th

Players Mentioned

Rylan Toth

#34 Rylan Toth

6' 2"
2nd
Goaltender
Austin Vetterl

#17 Austin Vetterl

6' 0"
4th
Forward