Bearcats Earn 1-1 Draw on the Road Against Pacific

FOREST GROVE, Ore. — Willamette University and Pacific University (OR) played to a 1-1 draw on Sunday at Hanson Stadium. The Bearcats took an early lead with a goal in the first half, but Pacific (OR) equalized before halftime, resulting in a stalemate. Both teams had limited scoring opportunities in the second half, with each goalkeeper recording one save to preserve the tie.

Ky Iliev scored the Bearcats' only goal, converting his single shot on target. Mikkel Jensen recorded one save in goal while facing three shots. Rory McKee led the team with three shots, though none were on goal. Lorenzo Trejo De Dios added two shots to the Bearcats' offensive efforts.

The first half began with the Bearcats asserting early pressure, highlighted by attempts on goal from McKee and Trejo De Dios. Despite being called offside twice, the Bearcats maintained their offensive push. This effort paid off when Iliev found the back of the net in the 29th minute, giving the Bearcats a 1-0 advantage.

Pacific (OR) responded in the 37th minute when Carter Zeiset scored, leveling the match at 1-1 with an assist from Nico Lomanto. Both teams continued to battle for control, but the half ended with the score tied, setting the stage for a competitive second half.

The second half began with the Bearcats holding steady at a 1-1 stalemate against Pacific (OR). The Bearcats' offensive efforts included shots from McKee and Jackson Cosner, though both were off target. Dillon Smith's attempt in the 71st minute required a save from Pacific's Kobi Miyamoto, maintaining the pressure.

As the half progressed, the Bearcats' defense held firm, with Jensen saving a crucial shot from Pacific's Garrett Heuett in the 82nd minute. Despite multiple attempts and several offsides, the half concluded without additional goals, leaving the match tied at 1-1.

The Bearcats hold a 2-5-6 overall record and are 2-2-5 in conference play. Pacific (OR) stands at 2-6-4 overall with a 2-4-3 conference record.

Looking ahead, the Bearcats gear up to host George Fox University on October 15. The match is set for an evening kickoff at 7:45 p.m. in Salem, OR, as the home team looks to leverage their familiar turf for an advantage.