Preview: Second Half of the Season Starts Now
Mariners look for vital points in the playoff race at Langara and Douglas
NANAIMO – The Mariners start the second half of the season fourth in the four-team PACWEST conference but still well within striking distance of a playoff spot. The lads can pick up valuable space in the standings this weekend with weekend games against the top-ranked Langara Falcons and the third-place Douglas Royals.
When & Where
- Saturday, September 27 versus the Langara Falcons (4 W, 1 D, 1 L) at Willoughby Park in Langley, 3:30 pm
- Sunday, September 28 versus the Douglas Royals (2 W, 1 D, 3 L) at Town Centre Park, 2:30 pm
Games are free to attend.
Tune In
Games will be streamed live on YouTube.
Head-To-Head in 2025
The Mariners dropped a 2-1 decision to Langara in their only meeting of the season so far. James Upshaw scored his first PACWEST goal on a header early in the first half. with all goals coming in the second half. The Falcons will be a tough opponent and are currently ranked fourth in the CCAA.
Against Douglas, VIU had some opportunities but dropped both games to the Royals in the opening weekend of the season, 2-1 and 3-2.
Watch Out Now
Langara: Goalkeeper Ziyan Clark-Ismail was last week's PACWEST conference men's soccer player of the week. David Rodriguez Zegarra is tied for the conference lead in goals with five and has already scored two versus VIU.
Douglas: Ayman Sahmuddeen leads the Royals with two goals scored--both against VIU.
VIU: Charlie Smith scored two goals in last week's win against Capilano and was named VIU's men's soccer athlete of the week. Smith and Brian Bland lead the Mariners in goals with three each.
On the Horizon
After this weekend, the Mariners return home for their final home games of the regular season: October 4 and 5 versus Langara. Saturday's game is at Harewood Centennial Park and Sunday's game, which also features recognition of graduating student-athletes, is at Q'unq'inuqwstuxw Stadium. Kickoff is scheduled for 3 pm on both days.
For more information, please contact VIU Mariners Communications & Sports Information Coordinator Matt Carter.