Bearcats Blue After Defeat by Whitman

SALEM, Ore. — Willamette University fell to Whitman College 15–4 on Saturday at Sparks Field. The Bearcats (3-8, 1-2) managed to score two player-up goals in the third quarter but were unable to overcome Whitman's (8-7, 4-1) dominant performance. Whitman secured the lead early, scoring four goals in the first quarter and maintaining control throughout the game.

The first quarter began with Ellie Milesi putting Whitman on the scoreboard at 12:32, assisted by Emily Odegaard. Whitman's Serafin Miller extended the lead to 2-0 later, again facilitated by Odegaard. Despite Whitman's player-down situation, Miller scored again at 2:34, assisted by Sarah Hawkins. Willamette responded with a player-up goal from Alexandra Miller, marking their first goal of the quarter. However, Milesi closed the quarter with another player-down goal, assisted by Hawkins, bringing the score to 4–1 in favor of Whitman.

Whitman gained more momentum in the second quarter with a strong offensive performance. Claire Kisielnicki initially aided in cutting the deficit, yet Whitman responded swiftly, as Lola McConaghy netted a goal, assisted by Miller. Whitman extended its lead with a goal by Hawkins, followed by another from McConaghy, during a player-up situation. Despite efforts from the Bearcats, including key saves by Olivia Austin, Whitman ended the quarter ahead 7–2.

In the third quarter, Whitman extended their lead, making it 9–2. Odegaard added another for the visitors from a free position shot. The Bearcats responded with two player-up goals, the first by Kisielnicki, followed by Priya Mistry, narrowing the deficit to 9–4. Whitman closed the quarter with McConaghy scoring her second goal, assisted by Miller, bringing the score to 10–4.

Whitman secured their commanding victory in the final quarter, outscoring the Bearcats 5–0 to close the game. Miller initiated the scoring, marking her 27th goal of the season. Odegaard contributed significantly, scoring three times. Additionally, Hawkins capitalized on a player-down opportunity, scoring with an assist from Milesi. Despite a strong defensive effort by Austin, who made several saves, Whitman's offensive efficiency proved decisive in the final stretch.

The Bearcats have a record of 3-8, 1-2 in conference play. Looking ahead, the Bearcats will host Whitworth on Sunday, April 19 in Salem, Oregon. The match is set to begin at 1 p.m.