TACOMA, Wash. -- The Loggers take one step closer to a NCAA Tournament bid, taking down the Whitman Blues 2-0 on East Field. 

How it Happened
The Loggers looked sharp early, controlling the pace of the game, and maneuvering their way around the Blues defenders. Through and through, they looked like a complete team, putting themselves in a great position to create chances. 

After firing a couple of shots on goal in the first 12 minutes, the ice was finally broken by freshman Kate Short. Leila Hausia-Haugen played a great ball into the box, finding Short who snuck the ball past the keeper with her head. The rest of the half was a possession game, as the Loggers were able to sit and defend, while still playing moderately aggressive. 

The second half started off strong for the Loggers as well. After a couple of shots didn't find their way into the back of the net, Short broke the ice in the 60th minute. Hayden Goodman found Short, who scored her second goal of the game, and eighth of the year. 

Gianna Maldonado made a trio of saves in the second half, keeping a clean sheet for the second straight game, and fifth in the last six games. Hausia-Haugen continued to put on the pressure, even as the game crept on. Two shots in the 81st minute couldn't quite connect, as the Loggers took this one, 2-0. 

Top Performers
Short scored both of the goals for the Loggers, and showing why she's one of the top freshmen in the Northwest Conference. Maldonado had six saves and a shutout, while Hausia-Haugen led the team in both shots (5), and shots on goal (3).

Coach's Thoughts
"We continue to play well as we finish out our conference season," said Logger head Coach Stephanie Cox. "Another great performance and execution by Kate Short in the air. Proud of our team and our locked in mentality to not allow a goal today against a talented Whitman team.  Excited for tomorrow and the opportunity that our team has for a rematch vs Whitworth."