MCKENZIE, Tenn. – Eastern Oregon (RV) Women's Soccer closed out its trip to Tennessee with a 1-0 shutout victory over Bethel University Monday night, with Cassidy Harding providing the game-winning goal while the Mountaineer defense held the Wildcats to just two shots.
Eastern came out aggressive from the opening whistle, controlling the early stretch and creating the first opportunity of the match. Samantha Jones had her initial attempt blocked before the Mounties continued to apply pressure with a combination of corner kicks and blocked shots over the next several minutes. EOU continued to test the Bethel defense, forcing saves from the Wildcats' goalkeeper while its own defense kept the pressure at the opposite end, holding Bethel without a shot through the opening half.
With just under 10 minutes remaining before halftime, Harding broke through, finding the back of the net for her second goal of the season to give the Mounties a 1-0 advantage. Gracie Rainsberry nearly doubled the lead in the closing minutes of the half, but her attempt sailed just wide as EOU carried its one-goal advantage into the break.
The Mountaineers picked up where they left off after halftime, continuing to attack and create opportunities. Ashley Smith forced an early save before Samantha Gjersvold followed with an attempt that sailed high. EOU continued to pressure the Wildcats, generating four additional shots and two corner kicks while its defense remained strong on the opposite end.
Bethel managed just two shots throughout the second half, but neither could find the back of the net as the Mountaineers maintained their defensive composure through the final whistle.
In the end, Harding's first-half strike stood as the game winner, as Eastern Oregon secured its second shutout of the season with the 1-0 victory.
The Mountaineers will return to Oregon, making their way to Salem for their final preseason matchup against Stanton University at Corban University. Kickoff is scheduled for 10 a.m. PT.