Preview: Big Games, Hunting

VIU's last weekend with home field advantage could be vital in the race for the playoffs

VIU Mariners mens's soccer — Charlie Smith (middle, facing camera) and the Mariners can bolster their playoff hopes with points against the top-seeded Falcons in Nanaimo this weekend. Photo: Mary Kessenich

October 4, 2025

NANAIMO - Getting points will be a tough task this weekend with the top-ranked Langara Falcons in town. However, the Mariners are hoping home cooking and the home fans will help inspire the squad to some positive results and keep the drive for the playoffs alive.

With four games remaining, VIU trails both Capilano and Douglas by three points. Capilano and Douglas play each other twice this weekend, so VIU's chances of keeping up with those teams will greatly improve by taking advantage of their final homestand of the season.

Standings

VIU: Fourth in the PACWEST with a record of 2 wins, 1 draw, and 5 losses (7 points).
Langara: First in the PACWEST with 6 wins, 1 draws, and 1 loss (19 points). Ranked #3 in the Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA).

When & Where

Saturday, October 4 at Harewood Centennial Park (East Turf) at John Barsby Secondary School, 3 p.m. Sponsored by Top Trade Insulation and Attic
Sunday, October 5 at Q'unq'inuqwstuxw Stadium, 3 p.m. Sponsored by Valhalla Pure Outfitters

All VIU soccer games are free to attend.

Tune In

Home games are streamed live on YouTube.

Head-To-Head

The Mariners have played the Falcons close this season but dropped both games: 2-1 on September 14 and 3-2 on September 27. James Upshaw, Benedek Horvath, and Charlie Smith have scored VIU's goals.

Watch Out Now

Langara: Taynour Bashghareh was involved in all three Falcons goals versus VIU and was named PACWEST player of the week. Goalkeeper Ziyan Clark-Ismail leads the conference in goals against average and shutouts while David Rodriguez Zegarra has scored 5 goals in 7 games.

VIU: Defender Thomas Greze-Kozuki was named VIU men's soccer player of the week after putting in two solid performances in the VIU backline. Charlie Smith is tied with Rodriguez Zegarra and Capilano's Sebastian Cirotto for the conference goal scoring lead.

Senior Celebrations

At the end of the women's game on Sunday (approximately 2:30 pm), seniors Marko Ilich, Nathan Torres, and Thomas Greze-Kozuki will be celebrated alongside seniors from the women's team: Courtney Ingram, Hannah Wagner, and Erin Jensen.

For more information, please contact VIU Mariners Communications & Sports Information Coordinator Matt Carter.