Box Score
Despite the importance of the match for the MRU Cougars and University of Saskatchewan Huskies men's soccer teams, today, soccer was no more than a game. The Cougars secured a 2-0 win during a wet afternoon at Stadium Field. Mount Royal head coach Ryan Gyaki reflected on what National Day for Truth and Reconciliation means for him and his team.

"We've told the boys many times before that they're very fortunate to be a healthy, young group of men who have their own freedoms in this country," said Gyaki. "It's important to bring to light the atrocities that have happened and try to heal together as a country."

Prior to kickoff, a ceremony was conducted in collaboration with the MRU Iniskim Centre honoured and recognized National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Iniskim was represented by members Tori, Dion, and Melanie. Elder Jackie Bromley opened the game with a blessing and spoke of the significance of the day. Following the ceremony, Dilayna Black Horse beautifully sang O Canada in Blackfoot and sent the Cougars and Huskies into the match.

"We were all very honoured to be a part of that today. I'm delighted that both teams were able to participate," added Gyaki.

Players from both sides struggled to find solid footing with the rain pouring down on the pitch. The Cougars broke the tie with a familiar goal scorer getting the home team on the board first.

In his 60th career appearance for Mount Royal, David Schaefer gained space on the edge of the box and beautifully struck the ball with his left foot. The ball sailed over the outstretched hand of Huskies keeper Jaron Slopinski and into the top corner of the net. Schaefer continues to score incredibly skilled goals, and today's tally was among his best.

MRU took their 1-0 lead into the half.

In the second half, Josh Flaksman sent a corner kick toward a crowded box. Flaksman slipped and fell while taking the set piece, but Cougars forward Miguel Da Rocha still managed to gain possession and rip a shot past the Huskies and in. MRU celebrated the magnificent goal from Da Rocha, but the officials ruled it to be a no-goal after determining that Flaksman double-touched the corner kick. The match remained 1-0.

The Cougars kept up the pressure, and captain Caden Rogozinski nearly put home a header, but Jaron Slipinski got his fingers on it to keep it out.

However, a few minutes later, Mount Royal converted a header to make it 2-0. Abel Nesibu sent in a pass toward the Huskie net, and rookie striker Nikolas Meyer knocked it home.

MRU held on for the victory and improved to 8-2. Meyer and the Cougars will go again tomorrow at 3 p.m. against the University of Lethbridge Pronghorns. Fans can catch the game live at Stadium Field or stream it on Canada West TV.

Player of the game: David Schaefer