Bearcats strong 2nd half too much for Whitworth

SPOKANE, Wash. — Willamette University defeated Whitworth University 2-1 on Saturday at Whitworth Soccer Field. The Bearcats' second-half surge included two goals, erasing an early deficit after the Pirates took the lead in the first half. The Bearcats' defense held strong in the second half, allowing only three shots on goal.

The first half saw a strong defensive effort from Willamette. Siera Edwards made a crucial save in the 44th minute to keep the score tight heading into the break. Despite several attempts from the Bearcats, including shots from Erin Denney and Amanda McArthur, the team was unable to break through the Pirates' defense, with Karlee Roderick making multiple saves. The Pirates capitalized on a corner kick in the 18th minute with a goal from Sylvie Washington, assisted by Addison Dizard, to take a 1-0 lead.

The second half commenced with a surge of offensive pressure from the visitors, as Ella McComas, Erin Denney, and Claire Warthen each tested the Pirates' goalkeeper within the opening minutes. The Bearcats capitalized on their momentum when Warthen found the back of the net at the 50th minute, assisted by Maddee Reid, leveling the match at 1-1. The decisive moment arrived in the 81st minute, as McArthur netted the game-winning goal off an assist from Natalie Rodriguez-De La Torre, securing a 2-1 victory for Willamette.

McArthur scored the game-winning goal, her lone shot on target finding the back of the net. Warthen contributed with one goal from three shots, including one shot on goal. Rodriguez-De La Torre added an assist, contributing to the team's offensive efforts. Edwards, in goal, recorded one save while allowing a single goal, securing the win for the Bearcats.

In their next game, the Bearcats will travel to Walla Walla, Washington, to take on Whitman College. The match is set for Sunday, Sept. 21, at noon.