Box Score
EUGENE, Ore. – After a 13-3-3 season and an undefeated romp through the California Pacific Conference last year, the William Jessup University women’s soccer team looked strong once again, knocking off Northwest Christian University, 1-0 in the season opener for both schools.
With game-time temperatures reaching the mid-90’s, the Northwest Christian University women’s soccer team battled a determined Warrior squad through 86 scoreless minutes. Then WJU was finally able to break through on a late free kick from the corner as Kasey Kellogg sent a pass into Rocio Ruiz for the finish.
“This was a tough loss,” said Head Coach Brett Bentley. “The girls played really hard and I am really proud of them. The heat just killed us.”
The Beacons finished the game having been out-shot 16-2, resulting in six saves in goal for NCU keeper Kristen Fulbright. Senior Jacque Bundtrock (pictured) took both shots for NCU, putting one on-frame.
A bright spot for Northwest Christian this year will be an unparalleled level of depth, not seen on a Beacon team in quite some time. This was helped in part on Tuesday as two NCU freshmen, both coming out of the same high school, were cleared to play by the NAIA within an hour of game time. Coach Bentley received the call from Assistant Athletic Director Sarah Freeman with just minutes to spare that both Bailie Reinwald and Lauren Schweitzer received full eligibility in the afternoon. Both women started the game, making contributions immediately.
“Bailie and Lauren got some good minutes today,” said Bentley. “It was really helpful, not just to have extra bodies in that heat, but because we are starting to see who our starting eleven will be throughout the season.”
NCU will look to rebound quickly as they travel home to face Trinity Lutheran College on Thursday afternoon. Kick-off for the home opener is scheduled for 3:00 pm.