Women's Soccer drops game to PLU

SALEM, Ore. — Pacific Lutheran University defeated Willamette University 3-0 on Saturday at Sparks Field. The Lutes scored once in the first half and added two more goals in the second half to secure the win. The Bearcats managed eight shots with three on goal but could not find the back of the net.

The first half began with Willamette taking the initiative, highlighted by a series of early shots from Claire Warthen and Samantha Rodriguez. Despite several efforts, including a notable save by Pacific Lutheran's Abby Winkler against Warthen, the Bearcats were unable to convert these opportunities into a lead.

Pacific Lutheran managed to shift the momentum with a goal by Marie Piho in the 39th minute. Willamette continued to apply pressure, with Erica Stotts forcing another save from Winkler just before the half. The half concluded with the Bearcats trailing 1-0.

Pacific Lutheran extended its lead early in the second half with a goal by Liv Olson in the 48th minute, assisted by Olivia Boehm. Just minutes later, Ally Tattar scored with help from Carmen Kiewert, bringing PLU's advantage to 3-0 by the 51st minute.

Willamette sought to respond with offensive pressure, including a corner kick in the 64th minute and a shot attempt by Ella McComas in the 74th minute, which went wide. Despite the Bearcats' efforts, the second half concluded with the Lutes maintaining their lead, resulting in a 3-0 match win.

Siera Edwards played all 90 minutes in goal, recording three saves against 17 shots faced. Warthen led the Bearcats in offensive attempts with three shots, including one on target. McComas contributed two shots, with one being on goal, in the forward position. Stotts added pressure with one shot on goal, contributing to the team's offensive efforts.

In their next game, the Bearcats will host the University of Puget Sound on September 28, with kickoff set for noon in Tacoma, WA.