Linfield University Athletics

FOREST GROVE, Ore. – Lize Rendon scored twice, while Melania Valdez and McKenzie Heckman each added a goal as Linfield women's soccer (5-5-1, 3-4-0 NWC) earned a 4-2 Northwest Conference victory over Pacific (5-6-0, 3-5-0 NWC) on Friday evening.

The Wildcats controlled the offensive pace early, firing five shots on goal in the opening 15 minutes. Linfield broke through in the 20th minute when Rendon found the back of the net off an assist from Sydney Garner, giving the Wildcats a 1-0 advantage. Linfield continued to pressure the Pacific defense throughout the opening half, recording 12 shots, including nine on target, while carrying its one-goal lead into halftime.

Linfield wasted little time extending its advantage after the break. Just 26 seconds into the second half, Rendon struck again, this time off an assist from Heckman, putting the Wildcats ahead 2-0. Pacific answered in the 53rd minute to cut the deficit in half, but Valdez responded in the 61st minute with a goal to restore Linfield's two-goal cushion.Valdez beat the Boxers goalkeeper in a penalty kick attempt to extend the lead back to two scores.

Pacific narrowed the gap again in the 76th minute, bringing the score to 3-2. However, Heckman delivered the final blow in the 84th minute, scoring off an assist from Maddy France to secure the 4-2 victory. 

For Heckman and France, it's their first points of the season. Rendon matches her five-goal total from a season ago, tying her for the conference lead. 

The Wildcats finished with 18 shots, placing 15 on goal, compared to Pacific's 12 shots and seven on target. Rendon led Linfield with two goals on three shots, while Heckman contributed a goal and an assist. France led the Wildcats with four shots, including three on goal, and added an assist. Fia Swanson recorded two shots on target, while Valdez contributed the game-winning goal.

In goal, Maddie Funk played all 90 minutes for Linfield, making five saves to earn the victory. The Wildcats also held a 5-4 advantage in corner kicks.

Women's soccer aims to carry the momentum into Sunday's home matchup with the Willamette Bearcats at the Linfield Soccer Complex at 2:45 p.m.

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