WU Women's Soccer Loses in Overtime, 2-1

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

REDLANDS, CALIF. -- The Willamette University women's soccer team was just seconds from a victory over the University of Redlands when the tides suddenly changed on Saturday, Sept. 12. Redlands scored in the closing seconds of regulation and late in the first overtime period to defeat the Bearcats, 2-1.

Willamette and Redlands battle through a first half that left the score tied 0-0. WU attempted five shots in the first half and all five were shots on goal. Redlands had 13 shot attempts but only one save was recorded by goalie Kelli Gano (Jr., Portland, OR/Cleveland HS).

The Bearcats broke through in the second half on a goal by Andrea Rowan (Fr., MF, Boise, ID/Timberline HS). Rowan took the shot from well outside the box. The ball went through the top center of the goal for Rowans second goal of the season.

Willamette maintained its 1-0 lead into the final minute of play before Redlands came alive. With 12 seconds remaining, Maddy Phillips fired a shot from well outside the box. Gano was able to tip the ball, but it still found the back of the net.

Redlands had 11 shots in the second half compared to Willamettes three. Gano registered four saves before giving up the goal with 12 seconds remaining.

In overtime, Redlands continued to have more shot opportunities than the Bearcats. Again, it was Phillips who registered a goal for Redlands, 9:39 into overtime. Phillips goals were her first two of the season.

Willamette had 9 shots on the game compared to Redlands 29. Gano finished the game with nine saves for the Bearcats. She played the entire game in goal.

The Bearcats travel to Orange, Calif., to take on the Chapman University on Sept. 13. Game time is scheduled for 11 a.m. (PST).