The VIU Mariners faced off against the Douglas Royals this past weekend (PACWEST/Mary Kessenich)

In the world of women’s soccer, the VIU Mariners become the first team in the PACWEST to clinch a playoff spot following a four-point weekend against Langara and Douglas. The Mariners defeated the nationally ranked Langara Falcons 3-0 in Langley before battling the Douglas Royals to a scoreless tie in New Westminster.

Jada Kamerman continues her outstanding first season with the Mariners, recording both a goal and an assist against Langara, while Kaiden Thorpe continues her shutout streak from the start of the season, not allowing a single goal against Langara or Douglas. Emma Thornton and Mary Huggill also scored against Langara.

The Mariners will return home for the final time this season for two more games against Langara this weekend. With two more wins, VIU would secure a first-round bye in this year’s PACWEST championship, hosted by Capilano University.

Keeping with soccer, the men’s Mariners continue to play with fire, taking the defending PACWEST champion Langara Falcons to the brink in a 3-2 loss before upending the Douglas Royals 3-1 in New Westminster for their first road win of the season.

Charlie Smith continues to turn heads in an excellent sophomore campaign, recording goals in both games. Midfielders Declan Brown and Aidan Gutierrez recorded a goal each against Douglas, while goalkeeper Brian Murray picked up his first win of the season, stopping four of five shots after entering in relief.

Volleyball fans won’t have to wait long to see the Mariners back in action. Both the men’s and women’s teams open their season on October 17th in Abbotsford against the CBC Bearcats before coming home the week after for an Island Rivalry matchup against the Camosun Chargers.

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