VICTORIA — The UBC Thunderbirds won their fifth straight CIS field hockey national championship on Sunday by edging the host Victoria Vikes 3-2 after a penalty shootout.
The T-Birds claimed victory with a 3-1 win in the shootout after the two teams were tied 2-2 through regulation.
UBC was on the verge of defeat before rookie midfielder Niki Best scored in the dying moments to force a shootout.
"One thing I have been telling the team all season is to never give up," said fourth-year Hannah Haughn, who was named the tournament's most valuable player. "My teammates are amazing. They stick to the game plan from our amazing coach and you can't ask for more from them."
Sarah Keglowtisch, Cailean Meredith and Sophie Jones scored in the shootout for UBC, which now has a record 17 McCrae Cup titles.
Emily Prystupa also scored for the Thunderbirds in regulation while Rowan Harris earned the win in net.
"They truly are a team," said UBC head coach Robin D'Abreo. "From the start of the season, to the start of this tournament, right through to the final whistle and final game they kept believing and improving. It's pretty special to be a part of and I am really proud of them."
Lizzie Yates and Rosie Beale produced the offence for the Vikes in regulation, with Amanda Kurianowicz supplying the lone goal in the shootout.
Earlier Sunday, the Guelph Gryphons defeated the Varsity Blues 4-2 in the bronze-medal match.
The Gryphons scored twice in each half with Olivia Lane, Laura Straus, Katherine MacMillan and Rebecca Plouffe finding the back of the net. Keeper Morgan Kelley made five saves in the win.
"I am ecstatic," said all-Canadian Erin Houle, who played in her final game as a Gryphon. "Toronto is a tough team to play. Every time it's a battle and this whole tournament every team has played so well. Bronze feels just as good as gold right now."
