NEWBERG, Ore. --- In the George Fox Women's Soccer home opener, GFU defeated the Bushnell Beacons behind the efforts of Lucy Brandt and Becca Kozak.

How It Happened
The Beacons dominated the Bruins in terms of shot attempts in the first half, however, the Bruins refused to let a single one of those ten shots go in. Keeper Emily Robey had several fantastic saves in the first, including back-to-back saves in the 22nd and 25th minutes that kept the Bruins afloat defensively. While GFU seemed to have fewer opportunities in the half, they made the most of their scoring opportunities. In the 35th minute, Willa Evans sent in a corner kick that was perfectly placed in the box for Senior Lucy Brandt's cross-goal header, the strong shot found the back of the net and put the Bruins up, 1-0.

The Bruins' defense was lights out in the second half, as they didn't allow a single shot in the entire half. The denial of opportunities for the Beacons then in turn created more opportunities for Fox, as they rocketed off 16 shots in the second half (nine of which were on target). They found the back of the net for a second time in the 59th minute, as Kozak added her second goal of the young season after a beautiful sequence of passing by Madison Fuller and Trinity Carrington set her up right in front of the goal. The score extended the Bruins' lead to 2-0. The Bruins closed out the game with ease, not feeling any more real pressure from the Beacons, as they wrapped the season's first win.

Top Performances
Becca Kozak's goal in the second half brought her season total to two goals in just three games; she has scored in back-to-back games. Lucy Brandt scored her first goal of the season, and Willa Evans continued her hot start to the season with an assist. Keeper Emily Robey finished with seven saves, all in the first half. 

Coach's Thoughts
"Important win over a much improved Bushnell team," Bruin head coach Laura Schott said, "We had some really great moments and some moments we need to build on. Congrats to our group on a hard-earned shut out."

What It Means
Fox improves to a record of 1-1-1, picking up their first win of the season today. Bushnell falls to 1-2. Fox has now beaten Bushnell in their last two matchups after they beat them last season as well. 

What Comes Next
GFU played their last non-conference game on Sep. 11, against Multnomah at home at the Austin Sports Complex. Kick-off is at 7 p.m.