The California Cougars only accomplished half of what they set out to do on their trip to Canada. Following a thrilling 8-7 overtime win in Edmonton over the Drillers on Saturday night, the Cougars suffered a disappointing 6-5 setback to the Calgary United at the Subway Soccer Centre on Sunday afternoon.

Despite the departure of several of his stars, Calgary United coach Troye Flannery has confidence his team can repeat as Canadian Major Indoor Soccer League champions. “We’ve got some hard work ahead, but certainly that’s the intent without a doubt,” said Flannery, whose squad began defence of its CMISL title with a narrow 7-6 win over the Edmonton Drillers on New Year’s Eve at the Subway Soccer Centre. The off-season took its toll on the United as Chris Kooy, Kyle Yamada and Andre Duberry all signed professional contracts with Edmonton FC of the North American Soccer League, while veteran forward Mark Slade decided to retire.