WALLA WALLA, Wash. - The Blues scratched and clawed and even had some late second half chances, but were unable to find the back of the net as the Whitman College women's soccer team fell 1-0 to Puget Sound in Northwest Conference action on Sunday afternoon at the Whitman Athletic Complex. 

"The team played a very good match," said Whitman coach Michelle Voiland. "We battled a very good UPS team. It was an unfortunate goal off a deflection. We still need to be more dangerous in the attack, however, we had some great chances. Now the focus is rest and recovery as we gear up for our midweek game at Whitworth."

The Loggers notched the game's lone goal midway through the first half. With much of the early action in Whitman's defensive third, UPS finally broke through with a goal from Ava Cholakian. She ripped a shot from just outside the penalty box that deflected off a Whitman player and over Hannah Hagler's outstretched hand.

Just after UPS's goal, the Blues earned their first serious chances of the game. Elizabeth Williams advanced the ball into UPS's half and served a cross to the far post just a tad too far in front of an onrushing Riley Glendinning. Chaney Heinbaugh later earned a corner when her service from the right flank was deflected over the end line, but nothing came from the ensuing kick.

Whitman had a few chances early in the second half but it were the Loggers who continued to dominate. Emily Badgley made a handful of quality saves for the Blues in net to keep her team in the game.

Whitman's best chance at an equalizer came just a little over 10 minutes to play. Williams received an excellent service on the ground 30 yards out from goal. She touched the ball into space and had a clean strike on goal which was saved by UPS keeper Chaylea Tome.

The Blues will look to return to their winning ways when they visit Whitworth for a midweek matchup on Wednesday, Oct. 5 at 4:00 p.m.
  Read Full Article