KLAMATH FALLS, Ore. – An early morning start time did not faze Oregon Tech, as Kayla Ness scored just 22 seconds into the match – the quickest opening goal in team history – as the Lady Owls blanked Arizona Christian, 3-0, at the OIT Soccer Field.
Playing during the eight o'clock hour to accommodate travel plans for the Firestorm (1-2), Tech blitzed the visitors from the outside. Gaining possession off the kickoff, the Owls (1-0-1) played a ball in space down the left side to Brianna Lewis, who served a perfect back-corner cross to Ness – with the senior flicking home the sitter inside the right post.
It marked the sixth goal inside the opening minute by the Lady Owls – breaking the record of 28 seconds into a match set by Lindsey Selle in a 2004 win over Jessup.
"I'm really proud of the team," said head coach Tom Moore. "I think we talked a lot about mentality heading into the game and we were able to see what it looks when we're really switched on when the game begins. I think we did a good job of keeping our intensity high and forcing ACU to be uncomfortable most of the game."
The Owls continued the pressure in the opening half, as Kaylie Hashizaki played an 18th minute through-ball to a charging Lewis, slotting a low right-footed shot inside the right post for a two-goal lead.
Just before halftime, freshmen Raeah Raymondo and Caitlyn Price connected to add to the lead. Raymondo played a cross from the end line back to the top of the 18 – with Price driving home a low liner into the net for her first collegiate goal. The Owls finished with 21 shot attempts, including 11 on frame.
The OIT defense did the rest, holding ACU to six total shots – with Sydni Nakamura making five saves to complete the clean sheet.
"If we can continue to match the intensity of our opponent, play a great brand of soccer and score a few goals, we'll take that," Moore said.
The Lady Owls hit the road for their next four matches – beginning Thursday at The Master's.