Bennett Makes 12 Saves, but Lutes Defeat Bearcats, 2-0

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

SALEM, ORE. -- Willamette University goalkeeper Mark Bennett (Jr., Salt Lake City, UT/West HS) earned 12 saves, including several spectacular plays, but Pacific Lutheran University managed to score one goal in each half for a 2-0 victory over the Bearcats on Saturday, Nov. 1 at Sparks Field. Ricky Morales and Derek Karamatic scored the goals for Pacific Lutheran.

PLU evened its overall record at 7-7-2, including a 5-4-2 record in the Northwest Conference. Willamette fell to 3-11-1 overall, 2-8-1 in the NWC.

Morales earned the first goal for the Lutes. His shot at 8:47 hit the net from 11 yards out, as he placed the ball into the lower left corner. PLU retained the 1-0 lead at halftime.

Bennett was particularly strong in goal in the second half, when he registered 11 of his 12 saves. One save took place on the first of back-to-back shots by the Lutes that led to the second goal.

After Bennett saved the first shot, Karamatic put the second attempt into the lower right corner of the goal. Both goals in the game were unassisted.

The Lutes outshot the Bearcats 25-9 overall, including 15-6 in the second half. PLU also held a 14-4 advantage in shots on goal, but owned only a 2-1 edge at halftime.

Willamette had its share of attacking against the Lutes, but couldn't create a goal. Both teams earned six corner kicks. PLU goalie Daniel Mangum was credited with four saves to register his seventh shutout of the year.

The Bearcats will play at Pacific University in Forest Grove, Ore., on Sunday (Nov. 2). Game time is slated for 1:30 p.m. (PST). WU will play its final home game of the season on Wednesday, Nov. 5 against Linfield College at Sparks Field, starting at 7 p.m.