After winning the CIS National Championship on home soil last season, expectations were running high for the UBC women’s soccer team heading into the 2016/17 season.
After winning two of their three preseason matches to kick off the year — including their 7-0 decimation of University of Northern British Columbia Timberwolves (UBC) — the team headed to Burnaby to play a friendly against their cross-town rivals, the Simon Fraser University Clan (SFU).
Being the heavy favourites to win the match, the Thunderbirds started off with a strong first half, outshooting the Clan eight to two in the frame. Despite the effort, the women were unable to find the back of the net. Momentum swung in the hosts’ favour after the 60th minute when striker Olivia Aguiar headed home a corner kick from inside the six-yard box.
The Clan outplayed the ‘Birds in the second half but UBC midfielder Sydney Jennings was able to capitalize on an 83rd minute chance to salvage a draw for her team.
The Clan did not finish pressing after the equalizer. In the 90th minute, Aguiar nearly got her second goal but nicked the crossbar with her attempt. In the end, both teams shared the spoils and settled for the 1-1 tie.
UBC will face Richmond FC for a final preseason match on Tuesday before heading to Victoria on Saturday for their first Canada West league match.
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