By Robert McKinney, Assistant Athletics Director, Communications

SALEM, Ore. -- Willamette University and Claremont-Mudd-Scripps (Calif.) battled for 90 minutes in their non-conference men's soccer game on Friday night, Sept. 9, but the defensive units for both teams prevailed, as the Bearcats and the Stags played to a 0-0 tie at Sparks Field. CMS goalkeeper Kevin Box recorded six saves for his half of the shutout, while Bearcat goalie Pierluca Carnovale (Jr., GK, Seattle, WA/Ballard HS) made two saves for Willamette's shutout. The game ended after 90 minutes because an NCAA rule change has eliminated overtime except in postseason games.

Both teams had several quality attacks. WU forced Box to supply the Stags with a couple of quality saves, including one on a point-blank shot by Sean Kim (Jr., F, Sunnyvale, CA/Homestead HS) at 71:55. Kim led all players with three total shots and matched teammate Ardem Baronian (Sr., M/F, Los Altos, CA/St. Francis HS) with a game-high two shots on target.

One shot by CMS in the second half hit an upright, but rebounded without going into the net. Carnovale saved the other two most accurate shots by the Stags, both in the first half. In addition, each team created a couple of shots that went barely wide of the goal.

As a result of the efforts by both teams, the game had plenty of excitement although the scoreboard remained without a goal. Players for WU and CMS were able to show quality technical ability on the ball and the teams confidently sent long passes into the attack. The Bearcats also succeeded with quick, short passes while under pressure in the midfield.

Inside the final third, however, both defenses refused to budge. Defenders made key plays and important tackles, often stealing the ball near -- or inside -- the penalty area. The teams also worked to provide quality defensive cover that limited the success of individual attackers. Strong defensive play stood out on occasion in the midfield, although each team was able to get forward at times.

The Stags ended the game with an 11-9 advantage in shots, while the Bearcats gained a 6-2 margin in shots on goal. CMS held a 5-3 edge in corner kicks, including 4-1 in the second half.

Prior to the game, Pacific Lutheran University defeated California Lutheran University, 2-1, at Sparks Field. Willamette will take on California Lutheran on Sunday, Sept. 11, also at Sparks Field at 11:30 a.m. (PDT). After the Bearcats and the Kingsmen conclude their game, Pacific Lutheran will play CMS at 2:30 p.m.