SALEM, Ore. – Willamette University scored a goal just seven seconds into the game on Tuesday night and went on to defeat Northwest Christian University in a women's soccer clash, 3-0.

The Beacons were caught off guard by the quick pace early on and allowed a second goal in the seventh minute, but things calmed down from there. NCU was able to hold the Bearcats (1-0) scoreless for the next 79 minutes before a late goal capped off the scoring.

“We really battled back and played pretty even after the early goals,” said head coach Jonathan Rea. “Jeneca Hoidal and Dominique Wilson played exceptionally well in the back against a very fast team. Those two were able to stand some players up with their physicality. I'm really proud of the way the girls responded. If we don't give up those early goals it would have been an entirely different game.”

The Beacons had four shots-on-goal in the game, getting one apiece from Sarah Stalling, Kara Nelson (pictured), Heather Henderson and Brittney Yip. The Bearcats took 15 shots, including five on frame. Calie McVicker started in goal for NCU with Shelby Gabrielson taking over in the second half.

Northwest Christian (1-2) is back in action on Wednesday as they travel to Newberg to take on George Fox University and coach Rea is optimistic about the team's chances moving forward. “As a team we are getting better at being first to the ball, which has been an area of weakness for us in the past. All the players showed a lot of fight tonight, and were more creative in their play, which I liked. We will be working to improve our ball possession and defensive balance when other teams counter attack. Our offense created scoring opportunities in the second half, now we just need to convert them.”