VANCOUVER - The U SPORTS No. 1-ranked UBC Thunderbirds (9-1-0) are ready for redemption, preparing to bounce back from their first loss of the season when they host the UNBC Timberwolves (0-9-1) for a back to back set of 5:00 p.m. games Friday and Saturday at Thunderbird Stadium. 

The T-Birds bid for a perfect season came to a halt last weekend in Victoria when they dropped a 2-0 game to the Vikes, UBC's first regular season loss in more than a calendar year.

"We had a few chances that didn't go in, but we were happy with the chances and the spaces we got into," commented 'Birds head coach Jesse Symons. "We will continue to focus on our defensive structure to make sure we limit the amount of chances that we give up."



The Timberwolves are still searching for their first win of the season, mired in a rebuilding year after finishing around the middle of the Canada West table in 2022. The T-Birds won their only matchup against the 'Wolves last year, a 2-0 victory in Prince George.

"UNBC has really progressed with their defensive ability and kept many games very close," noted Symons. "We are really going to have to be prepared to execute in the penalty box when we get the chance."

The blue and gold have just two games left in their regular season after the back to back with the 'Wolves, hosting Thompson Rivers on October 13th and UBCO on October 15th to close out the year. 



Coach Symons says his team's pace of play will be the main focus in these final games, ahead of the upcoming playoff push to defend their conference crown.

"We are continuing to build in all aspects of the team and are excited to be back home after quite a busy month in September," concluded the eighth year head coach. "We are really trying to up our tempo of play and be very focused on keeping strong balance with both our attacking and defending."

Tickets are still available for both of this weekend's matches and can be bought at the door. All games are also streamed live on Canada West TV.