WALLA WALLA, Wash. - Ella Johnson scored the game's lone goal just seconds before halftime and lifted the Whitman College women's soccer team to a 1-0 win over rival Whitworth in Northwest Conference play on Wednesday afternoon at Whitworth Soccer Field.

The win lifted the Blues to a 2-1 record in league play, the program's best start since 2014. With under a minute to play, the Blues were awarded a free kick just outside the penalty area. After a save by Pirate keeper Kate Nelson, Johnson pounced on the loose ball and knocked it into the back of the net for the eventual game winner.

"What a fantastic victory!!!," said coach Michelle Voiland. "The team battled for 90 minutes and earned a well deserved win. It is always fantastic to beat our rival and even sweeter when you win on the road!!"

Hannah Hagler delivered a solid performance in earning the shutout win. She made two saves on 11 shots for the clean sheet. Nelson posted four saves on 10 Whitman shots while allowing the one goal.

Whitman returns to action on Sunday, Sept. 24 with a home game against Pacific. Kickoff at the Whitman Athletic Complex is set for 12:00 p.m.
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