KELOWNA – An early second half goal for the Cascades proved to be too large a deficit for the UBC Okanagan men's soccer team to overcome in their home opener.

On Saturday afternoon, Sept. 13, the visitors from Fraser Valley escaped Kelowna with a 2-0 victory on the Nonis Sport Field.

Fraser Valley player of the match Kree Byrnes sealed the game with a brilliant goal, after weaving through the Heat defense seconds into the second half. His goal was assisted by James Najman.

The game winning goal for the Cascades was scored by Connor Macmillan (unassisted) in the 22nd minute, calmly finding his chance past UBC Okanagan goaltender Tait Cuthill.

Cuthill made four tough saves in the first half and he utilized his ability and size to hold on the ball and command his defense, keeping the score within one through the first half.

UBC Okanagan had some outstanding chances to cut into the Cascade lead throughout the second half. Brandon McCallum, a senior defender from Yorkton, SK., had two outstanding opportunities to influence the scoreline. McCallum headed the ball off of a set piece, only to hit the post. He also found the ball near his foot with a nearly empty net but was unable to finish.

Late in the game Jadan Wong found himself on the end of a long Cuthill clear, but was unable to control the ball and Cascades keeper Alex Skrzeta was able to make the save. Skrzeta finished with the clean sheet and the win.

After a determined start to the season, the Heat will be on their home turf once against tomorrow (Sunday, Sept. 13) looking to bounce back against Trinity Western. Kickoff is once again at 2 p.m.