Willamette bested by Puget Sound

TACOMA, Wash. — Puget Sound defeated Willamette 4-0 on Saturday at Baker Stadium. The hosts fired 27 shots and maintained solid pressure. The Bearcats managed only two shots in the contest, as Puget Sound capitalized on their opportunities to secure the decisive win.

The match in Tacoma began with the Bearcats' defense facing early pressure, as Puget Sound attempted several shots in the opening minutes, but none found the target. Sabella Pisicoli made notable saves, including stopping a bottom-left attempt by Sydney Boyd at the 16:41 mark, maintaining a goalless draw until the 24th minute.

Puget Sound broke the deadlock with a goal from Ella Oetinger. The Bearcats' efforts to counter were met with challenges as Bre Fulton-Kaneshiro extended Puget Sound's lead with another goal at the 28:55 mark. Despite Pisicoli's additional saves, the Bearcats entered halftime trailing 2-0.

The second half began with a strong defensive effort from the Bearcats, as Pisicoli made a crucial save in the 51st minute to deny Puget Sound's Sydney Boyd. The Bearcats' Bailey Watland and Maya Willis responded with attempts on goal shortly after.

The momentum shifted when Puget Sound's Sydney Boyd scored in the 63rd minute, assisted by Leila Hausia-Haugen, extending their lead. Puget Sound capitalized on this momentum with another goal by Hausia-Haugen in the 69th minute. Despite further saves by Pisicoli, the Bearcats could not break through offensively. The half ended with Puget Sound leading 4-0.

Pisicoli played a crucial role in goal, making seven saves over 90 minutes. Watland contributed by taking one of the team's shots. Willis was active in the defense and added another shot to the team's efforts.

Looking ahead, the Bearcats will travel to Tacoma, WA, on October 26 to face Pacific Lutheran University. The game is set to commence at noon.