TACOMA, WASH. --- The Pacific Lutheran Women's Soccer team concluded the regular season on Saturday, defeating the Willamette Bearcats on the road in a 2-1 victory. The Northwest Conference Champions now look-ahead to the NCAA Soccer National Tournament.
 
With the conference wrapped up, senior goalkeeper Samantha Nelson made her first start of the season, giving sophomore Abby Winkler a much-needed day off. The Lutes offense didn't take a day off though, as the shots came early and often for the forwards. Senior Meghan Michels broke the ice with a goal in the 15^th minute, earning freshman Lyla Merte an assist. Junior forward Hannah Cecil repeatedly fired shots, but was unable to beat the keeper.
 
Just the Bearcats second shots of the game came in the 30^th minute, which found the back of the net; tying the game at one a-piece.
 
The Lutes came out of the first half frustrated with their inability to score more than one. Thus, the offense took control once again, earning numerous corner kicks, giving the Lutes more scoring chances.
 
With junior Julia Causbie taking the corner kicks for the Lutes, she found senior Alyssa Leong who would put the Lutes on top, 2-1.
 
The Bearcats attempt at a comeback stalled, as they failed to get their shots on goal. Their lone shot on target in the second half was saved by Nelson.
 
The Lutes would go on to beat the Bearcats, 2-1, earning their 15^th win of the season.
 
"I'm proud of the team today, we played really well. Credit to Willamette, they defended really well and blocked a lot of shots. We turned it up in the second half, we gave ourselves opportunities with shots and corners that lead to our second goal. Overall, we played very well today. Great finish to a tough week, playing four games in eight days; a mountain-week for sure. Always good to finish off with a win. We'll take a couple days off to prepare for the tournament, and look forward to see who we play on Monday. I believe this team is motivated to go farther in the tournament than any other team has ever gone. Go Lutes!" said Head Coach Seth Spidahl following the Lutes victory.
 
The Lutes outshot the Bearcats, 22-6 with a nine-shot advantage in shots on goal. The Bearcats made nine total saves, meanwhile Nelson had one in her 90 minutes. Senior Lily Dose lead the squad with six shots of her own; three of which on-target. Eight different Lutes took a shot in the contest.
 
The Lutes now set their sights on finding out who they will face in the NCAA Tournament in Monday's NCAA Soccer Selection Show.
 
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