Willamette Shoots Past Pacific Lutheran, 2-0

By Sara Brooks, Assistant Athletics Communications Director, (503) 370-6219

TACOMA, WASH. -- Willamette University defeated host Pacific Lutheran University 2-0 on Sunday, Oct. 11. Willamette improved to 6-5-1 overall and 5-3-0 in the Northwest Conference. The Bearcats sit in third place in the NWC. Pacific Lutheran fell to 3-9-0 overall and 2-6-0 in the NWC.

Emily Wigington (D, Jr., Boulder, CO/Boulder HS) scored just four minutes into the game. Her shot from 25 yards out found the top of the net and gave the Bearcats an early 1-0 lead. It was the first goal of the season for Wigington.

The Bearcats maintained their 1-0 lead until Stephanie Skelly (MF, So., Poulsbo, WA/North Kitsap HS) added another goal 15 minutes into the second half. Skelly gained control of a loose ball and took a successful shot from 15 yards out. Skelly's goal was her third of the season and gave WU a 2-0 lead.

Willamette received another strong effort from goalkeepers Kelli Gano (Jr., Portland, OR/Grant HS) and Jill Schneeman (So., Burien, WA/Mount Rainier HS). The pair combined for three saves and the shutout. Lauren Chambard was the losing 'keeper for the Lutes.

The Bearcats outshot the Lutes 12-10 for the game. Pacific Lutheran attempted five corner kicks, while Willamette had just one. Eighteen players saw action in the game for the Bearcats.

WU has won three out of its last four games. Willamette will travel to NWC rival Linfield College on Wednesday, Oct. 14. Game time is set for 5 p.m. (PDT). The Bearcats defeated Linfield 2-0 earlier this season.