London, ON - In their second game of the weekend, the Western Women's Soccer team beat the Algoma Thunderbirds in a commanding 6-1 win, earning 6 points for the weekend.

Western had a strong offensive first half, kick-started by goaltender Samantha St. Croix. She was brought in to take a penalty kick and scored her first of the season, putting the Mustangs up 1-0 in just the 5th minute of the game.

In the 23rd minute, Natalie Abbate sent a ball through Algoma's defenceman, sending Hannah Vickers on a breakaway. Vickers came in and tucked it in the corner to get her third of the season.

"I feel like I'm known for the tuck away goals," exclaimed Vickers. "Natalie and I work well together, she's good at controlling it and my role is to beat the defence and tuck them away."

Forwards Vickers and Abbate continued to shine, scoring a minute apart in the 42nd and 43rd minute, both assisted by midfielder Maddy Skinner.

"Both [Abbate and Vickers] are excellent players, both work really hard, and both have the ability to score goals in a variety of ways," said head coach Martin Painter. "Positive day for both of them."

The second half sparked lots of excitement in the opening three minutes. First year Victoria Ufholz came down the field and crossed the ball to midfielder Thalia Lewis, who scored her second of the season. 

In the 83rd minute, Cassidy Wuytenburg earned her first of the season off a corner kick by midfielder Mara Sanauceanu. Three minutes later Algoma got on the board from a free kick just outside the box, resulting in a 6-1 final score.

"It was a great team effort. We had lots of players get in the game and were able to build their confidence and leadership," concluded Vickers. 

"Very good first half. Moved the ball well, and scored some nice goals," said Painter. "Overall, I'm happy with the performance and happy with the three points." 

The Mustangs will face Brock this Thursday, September 22 for an evening match. Kick-off is at 6pm.