Box Score

EUGENE, Ore. – The Northwest Christian University women's soccer team opened up the 2010 season against Simpson University on Saturday, playing to a 0-0 tie. The Beacons outshot the Red Hawks 15-4 and held their opponent to just one shot on goal in the contest.

“We played with more consistency out there today than we did all of last season,” said first-year Head Coach Katie Casebeer. “We were being creative with the ball, finding players, and we were very excited with the result after losing to this team 4-1 last season.”

It was a solid defensive effort all around, and it resulted in a strong debut for goalkeeper Ali Foster, who needed to record just one save en route to the shutout win. The offense never pushed through with a goal, but had their chances, getting five shots on frame, including two from Kori Wilgus, and one from Jeneca Hoidal last in the second half. Her shot, from 25 yards out, sailed just over the crossbar. Casebeer said, “Jen did an excellent job tonight, stopping things in the middle and she took that amazing shot that almost gave us the win.”

Also making her debut in a strong way was freshman forward Allie Bissett, who came off the bench to provide a spark for the Beacons. Coach Casebeer said, “Allie did an amazing job. She didn't back down from strong defenders, and she was working hard, making some great moves, and we were all impressed with how she played.”

Simpson, also playing in their season opener, had just four shots, including two from senior Courtney Opie, who put the only shot on goal for the Red Hawks. Freshman keeper Morghan Pomeroy had a strong debut, collecting five saves in the 110 minute shutout.

Northwest Christian will be back in action on Wednesday when they travel to face Linfield College at 4:00 pm.