By Robert McKinney, Assistant Athletics Director, Communications

SALEM, Ore. -- Erin Denney (So., M, San Diego, CA/Point Loma HS) of Willamette University scored a goal at 55:45 as the Bearcats took the lead, but the University of La Verne put in a penalty kick at 74:17 and teams played to a 1-1 tie. Regular season games do not advance into overtime. Willamette ended the game with a 0-2-1 record, while La Verne moved to 1-1-1.

After a scoreless first half, the Bearcats created the first big offensive moment when Denney shot from the right edge of the 6-yard goalie box and put the ball in the lower left corner of the net. Ella Abraham (Jr., F, Lexington, KY/Lafayette HS) set up the goal with a cross from the right side as she neared the end line.

WU's 1-0 lead held until the 75th minute, when a foul in the penalty area led to a penalty kick for the Leopards. Alison Flores sent the kick into the lower middle portion of the goal. La Verne outshot Willamette 6-0 during the remainder of the game, but three shots were high and three were saved by Sam Borngasser (Jr., GK, Grants Pass, OR/Grants Pass HS).

For the game, Borngasser amassed seven saves. Three of Borngasser's saves were spectacular, including two in the second half, as she denied quality scoring chances for the Leopards. Abigail Macedo of La Verne earned five saves.

Denney topped all players with six total shots, including three shots on goal. Miranda McGarry led La Verne with four total shots. The Leopards claimed a 16-9 advantage in shots and an 8-6 edge in shots on goal. Each team recorded three corner kicks.

Willamette will take on North Central College (Ill.) on Saturday, Sept. 9 at Sparks Field. Game time is set for 5 p.m. PDT.