Knights Grind Out Victory Over Northwest, 1-0
PORTLAND, Ore. – An early goal from Jameson Jones sent Warner Pacific past Northwest University 1-0 today at David Douglas HS in Cascade Conference men’s soccer action.
Jones laced a 10 yard strike in the 6th minute of the game, which would prove to be the game winner. Almir Celebic was credited with the assist after gaining possession of a deflected shot attempt in the box.
The rest of the first period remained scoreless, though WP nearly scored just a few minutes after the first goal. Shot attempts from Celebic were denied twice in quick succession. The first was stopped by a diving effort from NU keeper Joe Galbraith. The Eagle netminder was beaten on the second, but a last second clearance off the line sent the ball out of danger.
Northwest had scoring chances with free kicks, as the Knight defense gave away several fouls at the edge of their penalty area. Each opportunity went begging however, and the score remained 1-0 at the break.
The best chance for the visitors in the second period came in the 52st minute as Daniel Paull’s header attempt hit the post, then was cleared by the Knight defense. Warner Pacific also missed chances to add to their lead, with Celebic rattling the woodwork on a powerful shot in the 61st minute.
NU pressed forward in the final moments, searching for the equalizer but the Knight defense held firm and secured the hard-fought victory.
Dorian Lair and Drew Bonifacio shared the shutout in goal for the Knights with each playing 45 minutes, while Galbraith made four saves in the loss for the Eagles.
Warner Pacific improves to 4-5 on the season and 3-2 in CCC play. Northwest falls to 5-3-1 and 3-2.