Bearcats Earn 5-0 Shutout Win over Lewis & Clark
PORTLAND, Ore. — Willamette University defeated Lewis & Clark College 5-0 on Sunday at Griswold Stadium. The Bearcats' offense was relentless, with a total of 29 shots and 13 on target. The team broke the game open in the second half, scoring four goals. The Bearcats' defense maintained a shutout, with the goalkeeper making four saves.
Mikkel Jensen recorded a shutout with four saves, contributing to a strong defensive performance. Haydn Duncan scored the game-winning goal, finishing with one goal from three shots. Rory McKee added two goals to his tally, converting both of his shots on goal. Ky Iliev contributed both offensively and defensively, netting a goal and registering an assist, while also leading the team with 11 shots, five of which were on goal.
The opening period began with the Bearcats establishing early offensive pressure, as Duncan's shot narrowly missed the target in the third minute. Despite several offsides, the Bearcats maintained momentum, leading to a goal by Duncan in the 13th minute, assisted by Iliev and Drew Alexander. Jensen was instrumental in goal, making key saves to keep Lewis & Clark scoreless.
The Bearcats continued to press, with Brenden Pineda and Iliev frequently testing the Lewis & Clark goalkeeper. Jensen's defensive efforts were complemented by multiple saves that prevented Lewis & Clark from equalizing. The period concluded with the Bearcats holding a 1-0 lead.
The Bearcats opened the second period with momentum as McKee found the back of the net in the 46th minute, assisted by Paddy Bell. Just moments later, McKee struck again, this time with an assist from Pineda, increasing the lead to 3-0. The team maintained control as Iliev scored in the 66th minute with help from Dylan Ray, further extending the advantage.
Continuing to press their advantage, the Bearcats added another goal in the 70th minute when Alexander converted a pass from Bell, bringing the score to 5-0. Despite several attempts by Lewis & Clark, including a saved shot by Jensen, the period closed with the Bearcats maintaining a commanding lead.
The Bearcats hold a record of 7-6-7 overall and 7-3-6 in conference play. Lewis & Clark remains winless with a record of 0-17-3 overall and 0-14-2 in conference play.