Freshman Jake Ellig (, ) earned two goals as the 13th-ranked men’s soccer team extended its winning streak to six matches with a 4-0 victory over Sunday afternoon at Championship Field.
Ellig scored his first goal of the match in the 22nd minute, as he redirected the ball into the net after Jason Cascio () took a shot that was deflected away by an Otter defender. That was the only goal of the first half, even though both teams had an equal amount of chances.
The score remained 1-0 until the 71st minute, when a cross by John Fishbaugher (, ) found the head of Chris Hodges (). Hodges’ header eluded Otter goalie Brenden Baca and was the junior defender’s second goal in as many matches.
In the 76th minute, Dustin Allbery (, ) sent a cross into the box, where Cameron Mertens () was stationed. Mertens converted on the opportunity, picking up his third goal for the weekend and tying Cascio for the team lead with his fifth tally of the season. Ellig earned his second goal of the afternoon with eight minutes remaining, getting behind the defense on a breakaway and slipping a shot past Baca.
Jordan Jennings () made two saves, both in the first half, in picking up his third shutout of the season. Baca finished the match with three saves, as outshot , 14-9. The Redhawks also earned more corner kick opportunities (six) than the Otters (four).
(11-2) will face crosstown rival Seattle Pacific Saturday, Oct. 13, beginning at 2:30 p.m. at Championship Field. The match is expected to have major implications both in the GNAC and in the region.