Kaufman Scores Twice as Bearcats Shut Out Bruins, 3-0

By Robert McKinney, Athletics Communications Director, (503) 370-6110

SALEM, ORE. -- Willamette University scored one goal in the first half and added two more in the second half, as the Bearcats shut out visiting George Fox University, 3-0, in a Northwest Conference men's soccer game on Sunday, Sept. 25 at Sparks Field. WU evened its record at 3-3-1 overall, 2-2-0 in the NWC. George Fox fell to 2-5-1 on the season, 0-3-1 in the NWC.

Erik Kaufman (Jr., F, Portland, OR/Grant HS) scored the first two goals for the Bearcats at 20:07 and 47:03. His first goal was on a chip shot over the goalie from 14 yards out after receiving a pass that Kevin Martin (So., D, Cardiff, CA/Francis Parker School) sent from WU's defensive half of the field. On the second goal, Kaufman shot from four yards to complete a free kick play.

Mike McGrew (Jr., MF, Portland, OR/Grant HS) took the restart that led to the second goal. He put the ball into play from about 27 yards out near the left sideline. His cross found Adan Vazquez (So., F, Woodburn, OR/Woodburn HS) about eight yards out from the right post. Vazquez head the ball down and back across the goal, where Kaufman was open to put it into the net.

McGrew completed the scoring with another quality restart, as he blasted a 21-yard direct free kick into the goal at 53:18.

Alfredo Zuniga (Sr., GK, Salem, OR/South Salem HS) made five saves and was credited with the shutout. GFU goalie Elliott Davis earned six saves and took the loss. Jacob Baker played the final 15:20 in goal for the Bruins.

The Bearcats outshot George Fox, 14-8, with a 9-5 advantage in shots on goal. WU also held a 6-3 edge in corner kicks. Both teams went deep into their benches, as GFU had 24 players who saw action, while Willamette used 20 players.

Willamette will continue its five-game homestand on Saturday, Oct. 1, when the Bearcats host Whitworth University at 2:30 p.m. (PDT). Willamette is 1-1 after two games in the homestand.

NOTE: The photo with this story was provided by Calder Productions.