OLYMPIA, Wash. ā What a time to convert your first-career Linfield goal.
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In the 74th minute, Linfield forward
Emma Smith tallied the game-winning goal to give the Wildcats their first win of the 2017 campaign, 1-0, over Evergreen State at Geoduck Pitch.
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1st Half
The Wildcats dominated the contest in the first period, totaling 14 shots to the Geoducks' four. Evergreen State goalkeeper Rachel McClure did all she could to negate Linfield efforts, saving all four Wildcat shots on target.
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2nd Half
With 15 minutes until the end of regulation, Linfield's
Taylor Cole swung in a cross that found Smith 12 yards away from the Geoduck goal. The freshman striker remained composed, slotting in her first collegiate goal past a persistent McClure for the contest's only goal.
Eager to find the equalizer, the Geoducks applied heavy pressure late in the game, producing three shots toward
Sarah Bailey's net during the remaining four minutes. The junior netminder turned away all three, with the last attempt being repelled with one second left in the game.
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Leading Wildcats
Carole Thomas led all Wildcats with four shots. Smith and
Shelby DeRocher each attempted two shots on goals. Cole picked up Linfield's first assist of the season.
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Great Geoducks
Hunter Thomsonterrel led all Geoducks with four shots, three of which landed on target. McClure ended the contest with six saves.
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Ahead
Linfield completes its three-game road swing with a visit to the Warner Pacific Knights on Friday. Kickoff is scheduled for 5 p.m. at Portland Adventist Academy.
