Loggers Put Up Fight Against No.19 Sagehens in 1-0 Loss

TACOMA, Wash. -- The Loggers fight hard, but ultimately drop their home opener to No. 19 Pomona-Pitzer 1-0. 

How it Happened
Despite early pressure from the Sagehens, the Loggers got several shots off in the first 11 minutes of the game. Leila Hausia-Haugen was a key player up top, just missing two shots early. A couple of offside calls and substitutions for the Sagehens switched up the pace of the game, as they started to put pressure on the Loggers defense. Gianna Maldonado made some key saves, thwarting Pomona's attack and keeping a clean sheet in the first half. 

The Loggers were still able to get to the Sagehens, though, as shots by Zoe Witter and Avery Willis forced a couple of saves late in the first half. The teams were deadlocked at 0-0 going into halftime, with the Loggers holding their own against a top-ranked team. 

The second half provided a slightly different story than the first. The game was played primarily in the middle of the field, with both teams trying to find a way to break the back line. Lots of substitutions ensued, allowing each team to use a different look in order to break through. The Sagehens broke the scoring in the 72nd minute, and that ended up being the difference maker. The Loggers put some dangerous balls in the box, but nothing came to fruition. They finished the match down a goal, but still held their own against the No. 19 team in the nation.

Top Performers
Zoe Witter and Hausia-Haugen both recorded two shots apiece, while Hayden Goodman did a fantastic job holding down the back line. Maldonado tied her season-high eight saves, and only had one goal against despite facing 12 shots. 

Coach's Thoughts
"We knew today would be a challenge, and Pomona's possession and attack was a lot to manage," said Loggers head coach Stephanie Cox. "I'm proud of our team and the way the players executed the game plan! We will continue to learn, but can reflect on this game with a lot of confidence against a national caliber opponent." 

What Happens Next
The Loggers take a day off before facing California Lutheran University at 12:00 pm on Sunday, September 7th.

By Puget Sound