The women’s soccer team fought a defensive battle against Linfield and came out on top with a 1-0 lead on Saturday, Oct, 22. There were only seven shots taken between the two teams, but senior Abby Goss (Spokane, Wash.) managed to find an opportunity during the 75th minute and score the only goal of the match. Sophomore Kara Merfeld, (Bellingham, Wash.) made three saves to preserve the shutout.
Before this weekend, the Linfield Wildcats (11-3-2, 8-2-2 NWC) were the only team that had managed to beat the Loggers. Both teams came ready to play a competitive and challenging game, and the Loggers determined their fate. At this point in the season, there is pressure to win every game because standings are important for post-season play.
“The team was able to handle the pressure…I think most of us actually look forward to games that have so much on the line. This game seemed to closely simulate tournament play in that we were playing to save our season. I think since we were able to rise up to the challenge today it shows that we have what it takes to battle tough teams under a lot of pressure—a situation that we will face if we make it to the post season,” Goss said.
On Sunday, Oct. 23, the Loggers traveled to Salem, Ore. to play Willamette. However, they were not able to hold off the Bearcats (9-6-1, 8-3-1 NWC) in the second half. Freshman Robin Viera (Seattle, Wash.) started the Loggers off to an aggressive start with 1-0 lead in the 18th minute. She capitalized on a rebound shot from senior Jenny Moore (Kent, Wash.) which she tapped into the lower right corner. Merfled made five saves in the match.
However, despite great efforts, Loggers weren’t able to overcome the Bearcats’ two goals in the second half. The Bearcats’ second goal from Stephanie Skelly was scored in the last 21 seconds of the game. The loss keeps the Loggers (10-3-2, 8-2-2 NWC) in a tie with Linfield atop the NWC standings.
“The team has really been coming together over the past few weeks. We still have room to improve but it has been exciting to see how new and returning players have been able to step into big roles and lead the team. Each week we have [striven] to improve technically, tactically and mentally—we are learning to be tougher competitors on the field and off the field. The team dynamic is incredible,” Goss said.
The Loggers will play the Pacific Lutheran Lutes on Wednesday, Oct. 26 at 3:30 p.m. at home.