WALLA WALLA, Wash. - The Whitman College women's soccer team took on the Northwest Conference's top team and came so close to a result, but gave up a late goal in a 1-0 Senior Day defeat to Pacific Lutheran on Sunday afternoon at James Hayner Field.

Prior to the game, the Blues honored seniors Molly Beaulieu, Kavita Getchell, Virginia Hunt, Rocio Lybarger-Yanes and Ella Schneider.

Head coach Michelle Voiland couldn't have been prouder of her squad. "What a fabulous season! I am so proud of this team and the energy and effort they have put into the season. It was an incredible game and we had some great chances again today against the best team in the league today. We were able to honor our seniors, Molly, Kavi, Virginia, Ro and Ella and the players gave everything out on the field again. The character, the grit, the fight, the will and the absolute positivity of this team has been tremendous. I am so fortunate to coach such an amazing group of women. Big shout out to Georgia Cloepfil, our assistant coach for another stellar season. Well done everyone and Go Blues!!"

The Blues (11-6-3, 8-5-2 NWC) and Lutes (15-1-4, 14-0-2 NWC) entertained a well-attended Hayner Field. Combined, the teams had two shots off the crossbar and another two off the post, all before for the gamewinner which came in the 86th minute.

Neither team found the back of the net in the first half but there was no shortage of scoring opportunities. Two PLU shots beat Lindsey Pasena-Littlesky but hit the post and were cleared out of danger by the Whitman defense. The Blues later had an excellent chance to take a lead into halftime, but Emma Foley's bid from outside the penalty box hit the crossbar.

The second half also saw its fair share of scoring chances. Seanee Still, inserted in goal for the Blues at halftime, made two fine saves within a couple of minutes of each other. Whitman also had several dangerous opportunities in the attacking third but the game remained goalless.

The gamewinner came with just under five minutes to play. Hannah Cecil ripped a shot which bounced off the crossbar and was eventually cleared for a Lute corner kick. After a couple of shots and failed clearances, Bella Hanna struck a shot through a crowd that found the back of the net.
  Read Full Article