Bearcats triumph over Loggers

Bearcats triumph over Loggers
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October 25, 2025

TACOMA, Wash. — Willamette University defeated the University of Puget Sound 1-0 on Saturday at Baker Stadium. The game-winning goal came in the first half, securing the victory for the Bearcats. The defense held strong, earning a shutout with three saves from the Willamette goalkeeper.

Cody Stark scored the game-winning goal, his first of the season, converting his only shot into a goal. Daniel Hirai provided the assist for Stark's goal, contributing his first assist of the season. Mikkel Jensen recorded three saves to secure the team's shutout victory, facing eight shots in total. Ky Iliev led the team with two shots, with one being on target.

The first half began with the Bearcats creating early opportunities, as Owen Albrecht and Rory McKee both attempted shots that narrowly missed the target. Willamette's defense held strong, with Jensen making a crucial save in the 34th minute to deny Jackson Smith of Puget Sound.

As the half progressed, the Bearcats continued to press, and their persistence paid off in the 44th minute. Stark netted the opening goal with an assist from Hirai, giving Willamette the lead. The half closed with the Bearcats holding a 1-0 advantage over Puget Sound.

The second half began with Jensen making a crucial save against Puget Sound's Jackson Smith in the 49th minute, maintaining Willamette's lead. The defensive effort was further highlighted by the Bearcats' ability to withstand multiple corner kicks and shots from Puget Sound without conceding a goal.

Despite several fouls committed by both teams, the Bearcats' defense held firm, preventing Puget Sound from equalizing. The half closed with Willamette maintaining their 1-0 advantage, securing the victory.

The Bearcats stand at 5-5-7 overall and 5-2-6 in conference play. Puget Sound holds a 6-6-3 overall record with a 5-5-2 mark in conference action.

The next challenge for Willamette comes on Sunday, October 26, as they travel to Tacoma, WA, to face Pacific Lutheran University. The match is set to begin at 2:45 p.m. PT.