Paige Payne is picking up right where she left off for the UNBC Timberwolves.
The fourth-year player out of Kitimat BC and reigning Canada West Second Team All-Star scored the first and only goal in a 1-0 victory Thursday afternoon at Masich Place Stadium against the Thompson Rivers Wolfpack.
UNBC’s aggressive play caused fits for the TRU backline, creating lots of open space and scoring chances for players like Payne, Sofia Jones, and Julia Babicz.
“We knew they were a physical team, so we wanted to play direct and see where it would get us,” said Payne.
“It ended up working out. We have a lot of speedy strikers upfront and a lot of players who can hit those long balls. We were able to keep possession, and the team effort came together really well.”
PP7! The Pride of Kitimat, @PaigePayne74 talks postgame about her @UNBCWSoccer team’s 1-0 victory over the @GoTRUWolfPack! Recap and highlights on the way! #PP7 #gotwolves pic.twitter.com/TlmJGqcFb9
— UNBC Athletics (@UNBCATHLETICS) September 5, 2019
The Timberwolves had 10 shots on goal, compared to the Wolfpack’s six, making life more stressful for TRU goalkeeper Danielle Robertson who kept the game close at times thanks to a few point-blank saves, including one in the 78th minute against Babicz where it hit the crossbar.
“We were excited to come in and play these guys,” said Robertson. “We have to play them twice, so we will be definitely looking for points and results next time. It gives us something to work towards.”
UNBC improves to 1-0 and will play host to the UBC Okanagan Heat on Saturday at noon from Masich Place Stadium.
The Timberwolves men’s program plays a pair of games in Victoria against the Vikes Friday and Saturday.