Bearcats vanquish Boxers 3-0

SALEM, Ore. — Willamette University secured a 3-0 victory over Pacific University (Oregon) on Saturday at Sparks Field. After a scoreless first half, the Bearcats rallied in the second half and found the back of the net three times to claim the win. Willamette's offensive surge was highlighted by their dominant 13 shots, including six on goal, while Pacific managed 11 shots, all of which were saved.

The match commenced with Willamette establishing an early presence, as Paddy Bell attempted the first shot at goal in the 14th minute. Despite multiple opportunities, including a saved attempt by Ky Iliev in the 16th minute, the team was unable to capitalize on these chances.

Defensively, Mikkel Jensen was critical in maintaining a clean sheet for the Bearcats, making key saves against the Boxers in the latter part of the half, notably stopping a well-placed shot by Carter Zeiset in the 36th minute. The score remained 0-0 as the half concluded, with both teams unable to break the deadlock.

The second half started with Willamette maintaining pressure and a series of attempts on goal. Rory McKee and Lorcan Oliver each tested the Pacific defense early, but it was Brenden Pineda who broke the deadlock in the 56th minute, putting the Bearcats ahead 1-0 with an assist from Bell and Iliev.

Momentum continued with Pineda scoring again in the 68th minute to double the lead. Haydn Duncan extended the advantage further in the 71st minute, with assists from Pineda and Drew Alexander, making it 3-0. Jensen played a crucial role in goal, denying multiple attempts from the Boxers and recording six saves throughout the game.

As the half closed, Willamette's defense remained solid, keeping a clean sheet and securing a 3-0 victory.

The Bearcats hold a record of 6-6-7 overall and 6-3-6 in conference play. Pacific stands at 4-10-5 overall and 4-8-4 in conference competition.

Looking ahead, the Bearcats will face Lewis and Clark University on Sunday, Nov. 9, at 1:45 p.m. in Portland, Oregon.