Nationally Ranked PLU Scores with 42 Seconds Left to Edge Willamette, 2-1

By Robert McKinney, Assistant Athletics Director, Communications

PARKLAND, Wash. -- Rachel Ross scored the winning goal with 42 seconds left in the second half to send nationally ranked Pacific Lutheran University to a 2-1 win over Willamette University in Northwest Conference action on Sunday, Oct. 30. PLU, ranked #23 in the NCAA Division III Poll released by the National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA), remained undefeated at 14-0-4 on the season.

Pacific Lutheran leads the NWC at 11-0-3. Willamette dropped to 8-8-2 overall, 5-7-2 in the conference.

Ross earned the deciding goal following a corner kick taken by Lena Moreno. The Lutes outshot the Bearcats 25-6 and held an 11-5 advantage in shots on goal, but Willamette nearly forced PLU into overtime.

The Bearcats scored the game's first goal just 2:52 into the contest on a rebound shot by Emmy Manset (Jr., F, Ventura, CA/Foothill Technology HS). Manset was assisted on the play by Shanna Keil (Fr., M, Danville, CA/San Ramon Valley HS), whose initial shot was saved by PLU goalkeeper Takara Mitsui.

The Lutes equalized at 7:54 on an unassisted goal by Kaylie Rozell. The half ended in a 1-1 tie, and both teams were unable to score again until the final minute.

WU goalkeeper Kristen Barclay (Fr., GK, Kenmore, WA/Cedar Park Christian School) recorded eight saves for the Bearcats. Mitsui provided four saves for the Lutes.

Rozell topped all players with eight total shots. She placed four of her shots on goal. Ross added four shots for PLU. Keil led Willamette with three shots, including two shots on goal. Manset also placed two shots on target. The Lutes gained a 9-1 margin in corner kicks.

Willamette will close out the season next weekend with a pair of home games at Sparks Field. The Bearcats will take on Lewis & Clark College on Saturday, Nov. 5 at 11 a.m. (PDT). WU is set to host George Fox University on Sunday, Nov. 6 at 11 a.m. (PST).