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

SALEM, ORE. -- The Willamette University Bearcats broke a scoreless tie with two goals in the second half to pull away from George Fox University for a 2-0 victory on Saturday, Sept. 25 at Sparks Field. Willamette improved to 3-4-1 overall, 1-2-0 in the Northwest Conference. George Fox fell to 0-5-1 overall, 0-3-0 in the NWC.

Willamette's first goal was scored by Brendan Dineen (Jr., D, Portland, OR/Grant HS) at 65:21 on a 25-yard free kick from 10 yards inside the left sideline. The kick was sent on the ground into the penalty area, where it was allowed to continue on its path by a Willamette player, and went into the far right corner of the goal. It was Dineen's third goal of the season.

The Bearcats increased their lead to 2-0 at 73:55 on a goal by Derek Johnson (So., F, Mercer Island, WA/Mercer Island HS) as he redirected a cross into the net. Johnson was in the middle of field about four yards out from goal when he redirected a cross from the left by Mike McGrew (So., MF, Portland, OR/Grant HS).

The scoring play started when Patrick Yagi (so., D, Sammamish, WA/Eastlake HS) reversed the field with a lengthy cross from the right side. McGrew and Yagi each received an assist.

Willamette outshot the Bruins 10-1 in the second half and finished the game with a 12-4 edge in total shots. Joel Cowan (So., MF, El Cajon, CA/Grossmont HS) led the Bearcats with four total shots. His effectiveness at the start of the second half seemed to energize WU's offense, which was held to just two shots over the first 45 minutes.

Goalkeeper Eben Hellekson (Sr., Honolulu, HI/University Laboratory School) earned one save and recorded the shutout for Willamette. Elliott Davis made one save and took the loss for GFU.

The Bearcats struggled to get into an offensive rhythm in the first half and George Fox earned a 3-2 edge in total shots during the period. Willamette increased its offensive success in the second half, as the Bearcats controlled the tempo.

Willamette will return to Sparks Field on Sunday (Sept. 26) to host Pacific University. Game time is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. (PDT).