Bearcats Fall Short After Second-Half Rally Against Pacific Lutheran

TACOMA, Wash. — Pacific Lutheran University edged past Willamette University 3-2 on Sunday at East Field. Despite a strong second-half effort from the Bearcats, which saw them score twice and take 15 shots, Pacific Lutheran's three first-half goals secured their victory. Willamette's defense tightened in the second half, limiting the home team to six shots and no goals.

Paddy Bell scored twice, converting both of his shots on goal. Mikkel Jensen, in goal, recorded four saves despite facing 14 shots. Rory McKee provided an assist and attempted one shot. Ky Iliev led the Bearcats with four shots, one of which was on target.

Willamette began the first half with Jensen in goal, facing early pressure from Pacific Lutheran. Jensen made a crucial save in the opening minutes, but PLU broke through in the 21st minute with a goal by Owen Bliskis, assisted by Connor O'Brien. The Bearcats responded with offensive efforts, including shots by Lorenzo Trejo De Dios and Drew Alexander, but were unable to convert.

Pacific Lutheran extended their lead with two more goals, one by Caden Davis in the 36th minute and another by Ty Brunner shortly before the half's end. Despite efforts from the Bearcats, including a near miss by McKee, the team entered halftime trailing 3-0.

The second half saw Willamette make a strong push to change the momentum. Despite several early shots being off target or saved, the Bearcats kept the pressure on Pacific Lutheran's defense. Jensen made critical saves to keep Willamette in contention, including a notable denial of a shot by Leon Tomno just after the start of the half.

As the half progressed, Willamette found its breakthrough when Bell scored at the 86th minute, assisted by Vincent Flokstra. Bell struck again shortly after in the 88th minute, with an assist from McKee, narrowing the deficit. The half concluded with the Bearcats trailing Pacific Lutheran 3-2, after an impressive effort in the latter stages.

Willamette holds a record of 5-6-7 overall and 5-3-6 in conference play. Pacific Lutheran stands at 10-3-3 overall and 9-0-3 in conference play.

Looking ahead, the Bearcats will host Pacific University on Saturday, Nov. 8, at 1:45 p.m. in Salem, OR.