WALLA WALLA, Wash. - The Whitman College women's soccer team edged Whitworth 1-0 in Northwest Conference action on Thursday night at James Hayner Field, delivering a controlled performance in the latest installment of the Battle of the Whits.

"What a fantastic victory!! I am so proud of the team, said coach Michelle Voiland. "The players were completely focused from the start of the match to the last tick off the clock. The "Battle of the Whits" is always an intense, physical and tight match. The team stuck to the game plan and took control of the game. Avery scored an incredible goal with another great assist from Gracia. The back line was tremendous and our midfield absolutely spectacular. We will enjoy the win and tomorrow refocus for our upcoming match at Linfield."

The Blues dominated possession and created numerous opportunities, ultimately securing all three points with a decisive first-half goal from Avery Cohen, even as the visiting Pirates mounted several dangerous counters in search of an equalizer.

Whitman pressed forward from the kickoff, registering 13 shots to Whitworth's 11 and putting consistent pressure on the Pirates' defense. In the 30th minute, Cohen broke the deadlock, finishing from close range after a well-weighted assist from Gracia Larson. The goal proved to be the lone one of the game as the Blues (3-1-3, 2-0-1 NWC) marched away with the win to remain unbeaten in conference play.

Eleanor Johnson and Seanee Still combined for the shutout in goal for the Blues. Still came up with the save of the game midway through the second half, covering her angle at the near post and kick saving a well struck ball to keep the shutout intact.

Whitman returns to action on Saturday, Sept. 27 at Linfield. The Blues and Wildcats will kickoff at 12:00 p.m.
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