By Robert McKinney, Assistant Athletics Director, Communications

SALEM, Ore. -- George Fox University received goals from Michala Denn and Puka Ahina, as the Bruins downed Willamette University, 2-0, in a Northwest Conference game on Sunday, Oct. 8 at Sparks Field. The Bruins improved to 5-4-2 overall, 3-3-2 in the NWC. Willamette fell to 7-3-2, including 4-3-1 in the NWC.

The Bruins took a 1-0 lead when Denn scored at 18:13 following a corner kick. Emma Weme took the corner from the left side and sent the ball toward the near post. Ahina shot the ball from close range and a Willamette defender blocked the shot. Denn found the rebound about three yards from the goal and put the ball into the net.

GFU's second goal was scored by Ahina at 48:17 on a penalty kick. WU goalkeeper Kristen Barclay (So., GK, Kenmore, WA/Cedar Park Christian School) and George Fox attacker Kylie Louis collided as Lewis was heading the ball. Louis' shot went wide of the goal, but Barclay was called for a foul and Ahina converted the penalty kick.

"It was a tough result today," Willamette Head Coach Hillary Arthur said. "It was one of those games where we struggled to find a rhythm. We created dangerous attacks on goal, but couldn't find the back of the net. We will regroup and refocus, and be ready for the start of the second half of conference play."

George Fox held a 5-4 edge in total shots during the first 45 minutes, but Willamette gained a 13-8 advantage in total shots in the second half. Eleven of Willamette's shots were earned after the Bruins took a 2-0 lead, as the Bearcats battled to create a rally.

For the game, Willamette earned a 17-13 margin in total shots and tied the Bruins with seven shots on goal. GFU goalie Annalisa Klein, who played the final 45 minutes, registered five saves for the Bruins. Teammate Kelsey Kammerzell earned two saves while playing in the first half. Barclay played all 90 minutes for the Bearcats and was credited with four saves.

Emmy Manset (Sr., F, Ventura, CA/Foothill Technology HS) of WU led all players with six total shots, including three shots on goal. Manset was close to finding additional scoring chances, despite being guarded by two defenders whenever she received the ball near the penalty area.

Denn and Puke each took four shots for George Fox. Puke finished with three shots on goal, while Denn placed two shots on target.

The Bearcats will host Whitworth University on Satruday, Oct. 14. Game time at Sparks Field is set for 12 p.m. (PDT).