Late Goal Forces Extra Time
The MRU Cougars celebrate after defeating the University of Calgary Dinos in a ten-round shootout to advance to the Canada West playoffs. (Photo by Phil Tremblay)
The Mount Royal Cougars men’s soccer team won their second game in the playoffs after a thrilling 11-round shootout win over the University of Victoria Vikes on Friday night at Field Two at MRU’s campus.
The match looked close to ending in defeat until forward Josh Flaksman (#7) scored a late goal, tying the game 3–3 and sending it into extra time. Both teams played solidly in the added minutes, showing composure and strong defensive organization as neither side could find the winner.
Phil Tremblay, announcer for the MRU Cougars men’s soccer team, recounted watching the goal, saying, “Josh Flaksman scored an insane late goal to send the game into extra time […]. Then the shootout was absolutely crazy.”
Shootout Showdown
The penalty shootout was one of the most dramatic moments of the Cougars’ season. Goalkeeper Sjard “Sharky” Strauss gave Mount Royal an early advantage with an impressive save. However the UVic goalkeeper Callum Weir responded with a strong stop of his own, keeping the shootout alive deep into sudden death.
Strauss came close to ending it earlier with a near save, but missed by inches. Moments later, he earned redemption — stepping up to take the Cougars’ 11th penalty and calmly sending the ball past Weir to seal the victory. The crowd erupted as teammates and fans sprinted onto the field to celebrate the win.
Looking Ahead
Head coach Ryan Gyaki praised his team’s resilience and focus, highlighting their mental toughness in high-pressure situations. With this victory the Cougars move forward in the Canada West playoffs, carrying momentum and confidence into the next round. The MRU Cougars will take on the undefeated UBC Thunderbirds on Saturday, November 1st at 1pm on Stadium Field to decide the Canada West Championship. Follow the MRU Cougars Instagram for more updates.
Comments