KAMLOOPS – Danielle Steer scored twice in the second half as the defending U SPORTS champion UBC Thunderbirds earned a 2-0 win over the Thompson Rivers WolfPack to start the 2021 Canada West season in fine fashion.
With a whopping 27 shots, 13 of them on target, the T-Birds were fended off well by the hosts through 45 minutes, but dominated the second half en route to the season opening victory.
A back-and-forth first half saw both teams strike the woodwork.
The T-Birds got off to a stronger start, controlling play early. That pressure nearly paid off in the 12th minute when a floating effort from Sophie Damian banged against the crossbar.
The young WolfPack were able to respond however, working their way back into the game. A curling effort from first-year winger Makeala Gelowitz was just pushed onto the post by UBC goalie Emily Moore in the 42nd minute.
It was UBC who once again took control coming out of the break.
After some resolute defending, the WolfPack gates were eventually breached in the 63rd minute when Steer finished off a goal after a pass from Sophia Ferreria.
The lead was doubled just eight minutes later with Steer once again the beneficiary. The forward took a pass in tight from Katalin Tolnai and slid it into the back of the net for her second of the young season.
Emily Moore needed to make just one save in the victory for UBC, while Danielle Robertson was formidable for the 'Pack, making 11 stops on the night.
These two teams will be back in action Saturday night when they meet for a 7 p.m. PT fixture at Hillside Stadium.
Due to regional health restrictions, spectators will not be allowed, however the game can be watched live on Canada West TV.
