In the final game of the Oregon Nike Tournament, the Seattle University women's soccer team fell 1-0 to host Oregon Sunday afternoon at Pape' Field. For the second straight game the Redhawks (4-4) gave up a first half goal and were unable to rebound from their early deficit.
The Ducks (4-1-1) came out early and controlled the ball immediately. In just over 20 minutes of play they fired off seven shots, including a Jen Stoltenberg goal. She received a pass from Julie Armstrong and beat goalkeeper Madison Goverde to land the ball in the back of the net. UO is the second straight team to score first on the Redhawks this season.
Oregon out shot SeattleU 13-6, with five shots on goal to SU's four. Despite giving up the early goal, the Redhawks battled hard throughout the game. After going down 1-0, the defense tightened up to prevent the Ducks from getting on the board again. Goverde posted four saves in the game, to bring her season total to 37.
"It was the best soccer we played this year," said Woodward. "We played a great Oregon team and were able to keep up with them. Aside from giving up a goal, the defense played great. We were able to play at a high level today and I am very happy with our efforts."
Senior Jamie Peterson broke through the Duck defense in the 24th minute. She sailed in a shot on target, but Oregon's goalkeeper Cody Miles was able to get a hold of the ball and prevent SU from evening the score at one-all. Minutes later Seattle had their first and only corner of the game. Kara Kuttler kicked the ball into the Oregon box and sophomore Jordan Salisbury headed it into the goal, but a Duck defender was able to knock it out for a team save.
Senior Jamie Coe led the Redhawk offense with three shots. She tallied two shots on goal, but both were unable to find the net. Freshman Liana Heberer also tacked on a shot in the game.
Earning their first career start was sophomore Brynn Watanabe. She helped bolster the Redhawk defense, as she played at the central defensive midfield position. Watanabe and freshman Carlee Norquist were both named to the all-tournament team for their efforts on the weekend.
SeattleU will look to snap their three-game losing streak in Spokane, Wash. on Thursday, Sept. 17. They will take on the Gonzaga Bulldogs in a 3 p.m. match. SU will then return home to host Utah State on Sunday, Sept. 20. The contest is set for 1 p.m. at Championship Field.