Vancouver Island University’s men’s soccer team might be better than the standings show.
The VIU Mariners shut out the first-place Kwantlen Eagles 3-0 in Pacific Western Athletic Association action Sunday afternoon at Merle Logan Field.
Bill Merriman, coach of the M's, said his guys played well.
"They've played most of the games this year like that – they've dominated, but haven't been able to score," he said. "So it was really nice to see them start putting the ball in the net and be rewarded for their work."
He said his team was able to create one-on-one chances in front of the opposing goal.
"All our goals we were right there on top of the keeper," said Merriman. "We just played a little bit quicker and got it in front."
Nico Cristante, Andres Algarin and Taylor Arbour scored for the M’s and Scott Brown recorded the shutout.
Jeff Travis, VIU defender, called the victory a good stepping stone.
"I think it just started to all click today. It's kind of been building up until now…" he said. "We're in pretty good shape, I think."
The win was important for the M's considering that they had tied 0-0 with the second-place Douglas Royals the day before in a controversial finish. VIU was awarded a free kick in injury time and Peter Cooper headed the ball into the Royals net, but the referee gave the final whistle blasts just before the goal.
In women's action on the weekend, the Mariners beat the Royals 2-0 and tied the Eagles 1-1.
Jess Burma and Kaylee Dodds scored in Saturday's win, with Emily Rowbotham earning the shutout. Sam Rodgers scored in Sunday's tie.
GAME ON … The VIU teams play a home-and-home series against the Quest Kermodes this coming weekend (Oct. 10-11). The sides play Saturday in Squamish and then play Sunday at noon and 2:30 p.m. at Merle Logan Field.
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