SALEM, Ore. – On Sparks Field in a tough and challenging match, Puget Sound succumbed to a 20-3 defeat against Willamette University on Wednesday night.
From the start, Willamette demonstrated their offensive capabilities, with goals coming from Shea Richardson-Pepp, Lily Bachiochi, and Brooklynn Pearl. Puget Sound's defense, led by Phoebe Crowther in goal, faced relentless pressure from Willamette's attackers. Despite some valiant saves from Crowther, Willamette managed to secure a significant lead in the first period.
Puget Sound showed glimpses of resilience with goals from Mimi Carrier-Berndt and Maggie Ott, but Willamette's defense proved formidable, causing turnovers and limiting Puget Sound's scoring opportunities.
As the game progressed into the later periods, Willamette continued to dominate both offensively and defensively. Lily Bachiochi and Alyssa Molisee added to Willamette's lead with precise shots, while their defense thwarted Puget Sound's attempts to rally.
In the final period, Puget Sound fought hard to make a comeback, with a goal from Cat Schilli, but Willamette's defense remained steadfast, denying Puget Sound any significant momentum.
Crowther had six saves on the day, while the Loggers had a total of 12 ground balls and nine saves.
The Puget Sound Loggers head to Pacific University on Sunday, April 14, for a 1 p.m. match.
