Mariners Nab Top Spot

For the first time since 2014 the VIU Mariners finish on top of the PACWEST standings and will have an automatic bye into the championship game this coming Saturday.

The Mariners started the season a bit bumpy earning just one win in their first six games. As a matter of fact they were 1-2-3 to open the season. Then at the end of September they caught fire and haven’t lost since September 23rd. They have four wins and two ties heading into the championship tournament as the top seed.

Over this stretch the Mariners offence has been clicking outscoring the opposition 15-7. Chloe Gummer has been solid in the second half of the season and leads the PACWEST with six goals. After Gummer the offence has been very balanced as four other players have at least two goals.

On the backend keeper Melanie Osborne has been outstanding making key saves in almost every game. She allowed 12 goals in 11 games and was a pillar of strength in net.

In 2014 when the Mariners finished first in the PACWEST they collected 11 wins and went onto a gold medal. Then at the CCAA national championship they would finish sixth.

This coming Saturday the Mariners will play for PACWEST gold again and will face the winner of the Douglas Royals – Capilano Blues semi-final which is played on Friday. If the Royals are victorious the Mariners receive the automatic berth into the CCAA national championship since its being hosted at Douglas College.