Bearcats Streak Ended by Whitworth in Intense Matchup

SPOKANE, Wash. — Willamette University (2-1) fell to Whitworth University (1-2) in a narrow 11-10 defeat on Sunday at the Whitworth Pine Bowl. Despite a strong start with a 4-3 lead in the first quarter, the Bearcats were outscored 7-1 in the second quarter, which proved pivotal. The Bearcats rallied in the fourth quarter, scoring three goals, but it was not enough to overcome Whitworth's advantage.

The first quarter began with Whitworth taking an early lead as Jordyn Bennett scored the first goal, assisted by Peyton Green. Whitworth quickly extended its advantage with a goal by Sierra Witte. Campbell Vincent added another for Whitworth, prompting the Bearcats to call a timeout. The Bearcats responded strongly with Priya Mistry scoring a player-up goal, assisted by Alex Warfel. The Bearcats continued their rally with goals from Alexandra Miller and Shelby Wilkinson, both assisted by Mistry, bringing the score to a tie. Wilkinson secured a lead for the Bearcats at the end of the first quarter with an additional goal.

Whitworth dominated the second quarter with seven goals, starting with Vincent's goal just two seconds in. Megan Whitman was instrumental, scoring three times and contributing an assist, while Witte and Jordyn Bennett each provided key assists. Whitworth's aggressive play was punctuated by a player-up goal from Rose Frezza. The Bearcats managed to break through when Claire Kisielnicki finally scored, but the team struggled to maintain possession, highlighted by multiple turnovers.

The Bearcats narrowed the gap against Whitworth in the third quarter with two crucial goals. Syd Shoemaker broke through first, following up on an earlier missed shot. Less than a minute later, Mistry added another goal with an assist from Wilkinson, bringing the Bearcats' score to 7. Despite several attempts, including a shot by Warfel that was saved by Charlotte Norton, Whitworth's defense held firm for the remainder of the quarter, maintaining their lead at 10-7.

In the final quarter, the Bearcats mounted a strong comeback attempt against Whitworth. Mistry initiated the scoring, assisted by Ruby Hampton. Wilkinson added another point shortly after, bringing the Bearcats within one goal of tying the game. Despite a player-up goal by Shoemaker, Whitworth managed to maintain its lead. The game ended with a score of 11-10 in favor of Whitworth after a tightly contested quarter.

In their next game, the Bearcats will face George Fox on Saturday, March 14, at 1 p.m. in Salem, Oregon.