FOREST GROVE, Ore. -- The George Fox women's soccer team continued their hot start to the season, overcoming a slow start to take down Pacific (Ore.), 2-0.

How It Happened
Though the Bruins dominated the possession in the first half, the Boxers held close. Despite Fox outshooting Pacific 5-1 in the half, it was the home Boxers who came closest to grabbing the lead. In the 38th minute, Chanyn Santos' shot rang off the far side of the crossbar and fell safely out of play. Maggie Phillips and Taylor Ho each recorded shots on goal to conclude the half, but neither found the back of the net.

The teams entered halftime deadlocked, 0-0 — in the first half, the dynamic Bruin offense had been held scoreless all season. After the break, the Fox women came out determined to break through. After continuing to control the pace of play at the beginning of the half, Becca Kozak finally broke through. After receiving a ball from Phillips inside the box. Kozak poked through a swarm of Boxers and gave the Bruins the lead.

It would only take 10 more minutes for the Bruins to score again. This time it was Ho — after recovering her own blocked attempt, the sophomore sent a shot from 25 yards out that found the top right corner of the net. From there, the Bruins coasted to a 2-0 win, picking up their first Northwest Conference victory of the season.

Top Performances
Along with her goal, Ho recorded another shot on goal, while Kozak's only shot of the game was her score. Phillips, who had scored 11 goals through two games, was held scoreless for the first time this season. The senior still managed to record four shots on goal for the day. Defensively, Madeline Bailey recorded one save on the day. So far in the young season, the Bruin defense has yet to concede a goal.

Coach's Thoughts
"It was a slow start in the first half, "Bruin coach Laura Schott said. "The second half was a good response against an improved Pacific team."

What It Means
With the victory, Fox is now 3-0 for the first time since 2018 and 1-0 in NWC play. The loss was Pacific's first of the season as they dropped to 3-1.

What Happens Next
After a 10-day break between their games against Multnomah and Pacific, the Bruins will get into the thick of NWC play. The Fox women will travel to Tacoma this Sunday to take on the Puget Sound Loggers. Kickoff is scheduled for noon.