The Trinity Western Spartans scored three minutes into the match and never looked back, topping the UNBC Timberwolves 4-0 on Friday, August 25, 2023 in Prince George, BC.
Charis Wardrope opened the scoring, taking a Charity Field through ball and beating a helpless Brityn Hinsche at the 3:04 mark of the game and season.
At the 24 minute mark, TWU doubled their lead off a scramble in the box, with Sophia Crowther getting her foot on a ball in the goalmouth for her first of the campaign.
The young Timberwolves battled the rest of the half, showing great mettle in defending a dangerous Spartans side that was looking for any chance to break the game open.
Avery Nystedt was particularly strong for UNBC in the defensive end, coming to the aid of her teammates and making life difficult for the visiting Spartans.
Early in the second half, Graham Roxburgh's program upped the pressure, causing turnovers deep in the UNBC end. In the 49th minute, a hiccup around the TWolves' box led to an easy Sophie Crowther tally to make it 3-0.
Two minutes later, Danielle Cooper made it 4-nil, burying her first of the year despite a valiant effort from Hinsche.
UNBC coach Neil Sedgwick went to his bench late in the match, with valuable minutes played being registered by first-years Maleah Fernie, Fia Cameron, Terena Jagpal, Anna deWynter, and Kate Rattee.
When the referee blew his whistle, the Spartans earned a 4-0 victory to open the Canada West season 1-0. TWU now head to Vancouver to take on their rival UBC Thunderbirds, while the TWolves play host to the UFV Cascades on Sunday.
Nystedt was named Mr Mikes Player of the Game for her brave performance.
