On Saturday afternoon, the UBC Thunderbirds (13–1) moved one step closer to another Canada West (CW) championship title, defeating the Regina Cougars (3–6–5) 4–0 under a cloudless sky at Thunderbird Stadium.
With a conference title to defend, the best record in CW, and a conference-leading three players named to the CW All-Star team, the ‘Birds faced lofty expectations heading into the playoffs. They didn’t disappoint against Regina, putting the pressure on early with three shots on goal in the first five minutes of the game
UBC dominated possession of the ball, making repeated attempts at Regina’s net, but still had not scored by the 20-minute mark. Forward Nisa Reehal ended UBC’s drought, striking the ball in after a shot by Katalin Tolnai rebounded off of the Cougars’ goalkeeper.
Invigorated, the ‘Birds attacked relentlessly, forcing their opponents to remain on defence. In a display of their forward squad, a pass from Tolnai to Reehal, followed by a cross from Reehal to Ella Sunde resulted in UBC’s second goal of the game.
Meanwhile, Regina had managed only one shot on goal, rarely venturing into UBC’s penalty box. Trying to narrow UBC's lead, the Cougars playing appeared more frantic, racking up one offside and three foul calls in the remainder of the first period.
The Cougars looked better coming out of halftime, but still couldn’t make any headway. The Thunderbirds likewise stalled but eventually furthered their lead with a messy goal that could have been scored by Tolnai, Reehal, or one of Regina’s own players. The point was ultimately credited to Tolnai, the conference goal leader, who had made six previous shots on goal without reward.
A final goal by forward Jade Taylor-Ryan in the 84th minute cemented the ‘Birds 4–0 shutout.
After the game, Symons praised the overall performance of his team, particularly highlighting Reehal, Tolnai, and midfielder Taiya Dennehy, whom he called “our unsung hero.”
“She's constantly just sitting in [the midfield] and doing so well for a second year,” he said.
The Thunderbirds now look ahead to the CW Final Four and beyond. On Thursday, the ‘Birds will face the University of Saskatchewan in the semi-final round at Thunderbird Stadium. From there, they will face either UVic or Trinity Western for a chance at third place or the conference title.
“One more game, we’re on to nationals,” said Symons. “So we’ve gotta really keep this momentum going … it’s a quick turnaround now—next Thursday—so hopefully as a group we’ll rest up and be ready for Saskatchewan.”