Bearcats Down Occidental, 2-1

By Robert McKinney, Athletics Communications Director, (503) 370-6110

LOS ANGELES, CALIF. -- Willamette University outscored Occidental College 2-1 in the first half, then held the Tigers scoreless over the final 45 minutes, as the Bearcats claimed a road victory on Sunday, Sept. 11. The Bearcats, who opened the season with three one-goal losses, picked up a one-goal win of their own to improve to 1-3. Occidental dropped to 0-2.

Sebine Wetzel (So., MF, Martinez, CA/Campolindo HS) and Andi Rowan (Jr., MF, Boise, ID/Timberline HS) scored the goals for Willamette, while Elissa Minamishin scored for Occidental.

Wetzel opened Willamette's account at 10:28 on a shot to the bottom left corner of the goal. Rowan assisted on the play.

Minamishin tied the score with a goal for the Tigers on a header at 24:08. WU moved in front for good on Rowan's goal at 38:45, as she took advantage of a lose ball given up by Occidental goalie Taylor Renshaw.

Occidental outshot Willamette 18-12 during the game. The Tigers placed eight of their shots on goal, while Willamette had six shots on goal.

Willamette achieved a a 6-1 advantage in corner kicks. Four of WU's corner kicks were earned in the first half.

Rowan and Stephanie Skelly (Sr., MF, Poulsbo, WA/North Kitsap HS) tied for the team lead with three shots for the Bearcats. Rowan placed two of her shots on goal. Minamishin and Alex Nicholson each took three shots (two on goal) for Occidental.

Nicole Price, Willamette's goalkeeper, continued her strong play in the nets, as she registered seven saves. Renshaw made four saves for the Tigers.

Up next for the Bearcats is the team's Northwest Conference opener at the University of Puget Sound on Saturday, Sept. 17 in Tacoma, Wash. Game time is set for 12 p.m. (PDT).