Box Score After a scoreless half, a couple back-to-back goals in the second left the University of Manitoba Bisons (4-7-3) tied at one with the University of Regina Cougars (5-7-2). However, the final whistle meant more than just the conclusion of a soccer game. After being mathematically eliminated from the playoffs last week, four Manitoba players suited up for their final game with the Herd.

Before kickoff, graduating players Jessica Tsai, Camila Goldsztein, Janelle Chomini, and Alexandria Paul were honoured.

Tsai, the conference leader in shots on goal, was only one assist back from Desiree Scott's program record of 26 when play began. Even though a pass from her could potentially help her tie Scott's marker, Tsai was eager to put one in the back of the net. Two free kicks from the fifth-year player were sent dangerously on net, each being handled well by Regina goalkeeper Cassidy Fedoruk.

Tsai wasn't the only graduating player creating offence for Manitoba.
Goldsztein had a couple great chances for the Herd early. A great through pass from Tsai set her up for a streaking strike in the box, while Goldsztein also had a solo effort where she drove to the short side and was once again stuffed by Fedoruk.

Fourth year forward Paris Sidhu also rang it off the crossbar from 30 yards out, the host's best chance of the first half.

Holly Dyker also had a clean sheet in the half. Other than a near turnover just outside the box, the Manitoba goalkeeper was perfect through 45, before being subbed out in the second for fellow netminder Daria Reimer.

The Bisons continued the offense in the second. Moments after kickoff, Tsai nearly headed the go-ahead goal past Fedoruk, then just missed a break away pass behind the line. Paul also had a great opportunity in the 56^th but sent her shot wide left after dancing through the middle of the box.

Regina finally broke the stalemate in the 75^th. Streaking diagonally through the box alone, Winnipegger Peyton Enns redirected a cross through a couple defenders and past Reimer to put the Cougars ahead.

Manitoba quickly responded. On a free kick from just inside 50 yards, third-year defender Shannon Lee sent a towering screamer over top the players waiting below. As the ball rocketed downward it picked up speed and slipped just under the bar to tie the game on a glorious shot.

"I saw a little space there and thought I'd go for it," she said. "The game was winding down, it is our senior match, and it's always my goal to make my mark for the team and do what I can."

Lee's marker was the Bisons final tally of the afternoon, leaving the scoreboard showing 1-1 at the final whistle. The third-year player's goal added to what became a career year for the Minnesota native. Her eight points for Manitoba saw her finish second on the team. She will likely be a big part of the Bison's 2025 leadership group.

"I'm going to do my best to show the incoming players and everyone else returning how we do it here," she said.

"Everyone has a shot, as long as you work hard, you can make a difference."

Watching her fellow teammates move on from the team is hard for Lee. She had nothing but praise for the seniors, adding they have left their mark on and off the field. There will be big shoes to fill for Lee and the rest of the Bisons, especially their outgoing captain.

Tsai has served as Manitoba's captain for four out of her five years with the team. She set program records for games played as well as shots on goal. Even though she finished Sunday's match one assist back of the program record, Tsai was thankful she could take the moment in with her teammates.

"You can tell I am tearing up a little bit," she said. "Right now, I'm thinking more about how grateful I am to have been able to play so long with my team, and just all the memories along the way."

Head coach Vanessa Martinez Lagunas coached the Herd's seniors for nearly half a decade and believes their presence will be missed in the locker room, and on the field.

"They have left a great legacy on this program," she said. "They have become not only great players but amazing, leaders, mentors, and professionals. I know they're going to make a difference in whatever area they choose to go to. I'm very proud of them."

The Bisons have lots of exciting players to build with for next year. First year forward Nyema Prentice-Whyte scored a team leading seven goals, while Taryn Cabak was named to the Canada West All-Rookie team last season, and Tabata Bravo, as well as Sidhu and Lee were also key leaders for the Herd.

After a roller coaster season that left Manitoba sitting two wins back of the playoffs, Martinez Lagunas is projecting a determined group next year. She believes her team has learned a lot since the summer and will be ready to get to work. 

"I think we improved tremendously from the beginning of the season to the end," she said.

"I think we finished the season strong. Next year, I think we need to see more consistency from the beginning to the end of the season. We didn't have the greatest start this year, and I think that's what really put us on our heels. We're going to keep working hard, and hopefully next year we will be able to show more consistency all throughout the season."