PORTLAND, Ore. – Nedya Sawan scored the game-winning goal in the 77
th minute for the Portland Pilots to give them a 1-0 win over the San Francisco Dons, their first in WCC play. The win puts them at 5-6-0 on the year and 1-2-0 against conference opponents.
Portland started conservatively, looking to play protect their goal. San Francisco pushed deep into the final third, utilizing long passes across the field to try and put the Pilots on their heels. But even though they bent, the Pilots did not break, fending off the Dons.
After defending the goal, the Pilots would look to get on the counterattack, taking advantage of a San Francisco team that had pushed all their players forward. The result was a few early opportunities for Portland to score, although they couldn't quite capitalize on any chances.
It was an even first half possession-wise, with both teams handling the ball half the time. Portland had a slight advantage shot-wise, outshooting the Dons 5-3, but nothing materialized from those chances. The score was 0-0 at the half.
The second half began and the Pilots ramped up their counterattack. They put pressure defensively on the Dons in the midfield and frequently turned that pressure into chances on the other end. The Pilots looked more controlled in their attack and the result was six shots in the first 30 minutes of the second half.
The hard work on the counter finally paid off in the 77
th minute. Sophia Mattice controlled the throw in and played a perfect through ball to Nedya Sawan. The sophomore forward dribbled the ball hard into the box and launched a powerful right-footed shot off the right post and into the goal. The score – Sawan's sixth of the year – made it 1-0 Pilots.
After scoring the goal, the Pilots parked the bus to ensure that the Dons wouldn't find the equalizer. Portland was successful in holding the Dons off, earning the 1-0 win.
Next up, the Pilots will head to Moraga, Calif. for a Saturday showdown against the Saint Mary's Gaels. Kickoff for that match is set for Oct. 16 at 1 p.m. Check PortlandPilots.com for live stats and video options.
