Iliev finds the back of the net but Loggers prevail

SALEM, Ore. — The University of Puget Sound defeated Willamette University 3-1 on Sunday at Sparks Field. Despite Willamette's early goal in the first half, Puget Sound responded with two second-half goals to secure the victory. The Bearcats recorded 13 shots, but the Loggers' defense held strong, allowing just one goal on three shots on target.

Ky Iliev scored one goal on four shots, with one shot on goal, leading the offensive effort. Mikkel Jensen, in goal, recorded one save while facing eight shots. Everett Caspell contributed with one shot on goal. Baylen Ponte also managed to get one shot on goal during the match.

The first half began with Willamette taking an early lead as Iliev found the back of the net in the 12th minute, setting the tone for the home side. The Bearcats continued to apply pressure with a blocked attempt shortly after by Iliev, while Caspell's shot earlier on was denied by the Puget Sound goalkeeper, Luke Mamiya.

The Loggers responded in the 35th minute when Rhys Foote scored with assistance from Ethan Lu, leveling the match. Despite multiple fouls by both teams, the score remained tied 1-1 at the close of the first half, leaving the contest evenly poised.

The second half began with the Bearcats striving to equalize, as Iliev and Lorenzo Trejo De Dios both attempted early shots that narrowly missed the target. Jensen made a crucial save at the 63rd minute, keeping the score within reach. However, UPS increased their lead with a goal from Foote in the 67th minute, followed by Owen Pschigoda's finish in the 71st minute, bringing the score to 3-1.

The Bearcats continued to push forward, with Dillon Smith and Rory McKee each testing the defense, but their efforts were off-target. Ponte's attempt in the 88th minute was saved, leaving Willamette unable to close the gap. The half ended with UPS ahead, and the final score stood at 3-1 in favor of the Loggers.

The Bearcats' record stands at 1-5-4 overall and 1-2-3 in conference play. The Loggers improve to 4-2-1 overall and 3-1-0 in conference play.

The next challenge for the Bearcats comes on October 1 when they head to McMinnville, OR, to face Linfield University. The match is set to begin at 7:45 p.