Stalemate between Willamette and Pacific
SALEM, Ore. — Willamette University and Pacific University (OR) ended in a 1-1 draw on Saturday at Sparks Field.
The match commenced with Willamette establishing a solid defensive presence, as goalkeeper Siera Edwards made crucial saves early, turning away a shot from Pacific's Rissalyn Hara in the second minute. Willamette's offense responded with attempts, including efforts by Claire Warthen and Maddee Reid, though both shots missed the goal.
Midway through the period, Edwards continued to be a key factor, stopping successive shots from Pacific's Gwendolyn Saing and Mirella Garcia. The Bearcats created opportunities on set pieces, with multiple corner kicks, but shots by Patricia Krepel and Natalie Rodriguez-De La Torre went off target. The period concluded with the scoreboard unchanged at 0-0, with both teams seeking a breakthrough.
The second period began with Pacific taking an early lead when Rissalyn Hara scored in the 47th minute, assisted by Gwendolyn Saing. Despite this setback, Willamette's defense, anchored by Edwards, stood firm, making crucial saves against attempts by Rhyah Jackson in the 66th and 68th minutes.
The Bearcats continued to press forward, creating opportunities with several corner kicks and shots, including a notable attempt by Warthen in the 86th minute that was saved by Kylie Pascual. The breakthrough came in the 86th minute when Amanda McArthur, assisted by Elle Bachhuber, leveled the score. The period closed with Willamette maintaining pressure and the score tied at 1-1.
Edwards recorded six saves during the match, keeping the game competitive until the final whistle. McArthur scored the team's only goal, converting her lone shot on target. Bachhuber contributed with an assist, adding to her season tally. Warthen made an impact with two shots, including one on goal, applying pressure to the opposing defense.
Looking ahead, the Bearcats will face off against Lewis and Clark University on Sunday, Nov. 9, at 11 a.m. in Portland, Oregon.