NEWBERG --- In a thrilling match, the Willamette Bearcats escaped with a 1-0 overtime victory over the George Fox Bruins on Sunday, Sept. 22. 

Recap:

The Sunday match started off with some quick action as Willamette pushed down the field for two early corner kicks before the fifth minute, but both were deflected away.  George Fox held off Willamette's continued barrage of through balls and passes, but were unable to find success offensively, only having one shot for the entire first half.  Both teams were at standstill.

The second half started with some playmaking for the Bearcats, giving them a great opportunity to score in the 56", but a great save by Brooke Jones kept the game scoreless.  With the game moving towards its final minutes of regulation, George Fox made multiple pushes down the field, including a free kick shot by Chloe Shumaker that was well defended by goalkeeper Grasiela Quevedo.  As time expired, George Fox finished with seven shots, but none found the back of the net.

In the first overtime period, Willamette made a push in the 95", ending in another spectacular save by Jones to save the ball from sailing in to the upper left hand corner, keeping game tied.  However, two minutes later, a center from Shanna Keil found Lacey Jones, who headed the ball past the diving B. Jones into the back left of the goal, giving the Bearcats their third conference win.

Top Performers:

Goalkeeper Jones played well, ending the game with two saves.  Chloe Shumaker also had a nice game, finishing with the Bruins' only shot on goal.

What It Means:

The Bruins finish their conference opening weekend 0-2 and are now 2-3-1 on the year.

What Happens Next:

George Fox travels to Whitman College for a Saturday game on September 28th at 12:00.