Box Score Women's soccer season opener started off with sunny conditions at 23 degrees and clear skies.

Positive team spirit and camaraderie was strong given it's MRU's 30th season of the women's soccer program. 

The Cougars style of play began aggressively but the Vikes didn't let up. 

At the 11th minute Vikes player Jayden Hannesson scored the first goal of the game. Less than a minute later, Cougars defender Julia Makoloski scored an unassisted goal.

With a 1-1 score at the 12 minute mark, both the Cougars and Vikes keep up their pace and defense.

At 32 minutes, Vikes defender Payton Rangel scored the second goal for the Vikes, bringing the current score to 2-1. Less than 30 seconds later Cougars forward Dany Juarez ties up the game at just 34 minutes.
Both teams looked very strong and aggressive on the field. 

Vikes defender Sophie Murphy scores at the 41-minute mark, very close to half time leaving the Cougars behind by just one goal.

At the end of the first half, the score was 3-2 for the Vikes. 

At the 54 minute mark Vikes player Ruby Nicholas scored a strong goal and brought  the score 4-2 for the Vikes. Less than two minutes later Cougars  midfielder Gabriel Linford put one in for the Cougars cutting the lead.  

In the final minutes of the game MRU found themselves with a corner kick. Off a deflection Analisa Galvez had the opportunity to tie it up and hit the post. Victoria then went on to hold the ball in the corner, running the clock and eventually winning thweir first game of the season.

This game was an evenly matched and intense game filled with impressive plays by MRU players.

The Cougars showed grit and determination today and will look to bounce back next weekend.
Next up, the Cougars take on the University of Northern British Columbia Timberwolves on Friday, September 6th at 5 PM on Stadium Field.