McMINNVILLE, Ore. – Linfield delivered a commanding performance on a wet and cloudy Saturday afternoon, defeating Pacific Lutheran 16-3 at the Lacrosse Complex. The Wildcats improved to 4-3 on the season, while the Lutes fell to 1-5.
Linfield's offense was led by a historic performance from junior
Gabby Crist, who scored a career-high nine goals, tying for the second-most goals in a single game in program history. Crist's remarkable outing fell just two goals shy of the program record of 11, set by Anna Gorciak in 2010. Crist also added an assist, finishing with 10 points, and contributed four caused turnovers and three ground balls.
The Wildcats wasted no time establishing control, scoring six unanswered goals in the first quarter. Crist opened the scoring just 1:24 into the game, assisted by
Mackenzie Kulick, and added three more goals in the quarter, including two unassisted efforts in the final minute. Kulick and
Maizri Chandler also found the back of the net in the opening period, with Chandler finishing the game with four goals and an assist.
Linfield's defense was equally impressive, limiting Pacific Lutheran to just 10 shots and forcing 32 turnovers.
Maya Wright anchored the defensive effort with four caused turnovers and five draw controls, while
Grayce Miller added four caused turnovers and a ground ball.
The Wildcats extended their lead in the second half, outscoring the Lutes 9-2 over the final two quarters.
Evelyn Cross contributed a goal and an assist, while
Madison DeLaTrinidad added a goal late in the fourth quarter.
In goal,
Tenley Hodge made three saves to secure the win, while Linfield's offense fired off 46 shots, including 29 on goal.
NEXT
Linfield enjoys an extended break before beginning conference play on Wednesday, April 2 against Pacific with a 1 p.m. start time in Forest Grove.
