PLU silences Linfield scorers

October 12, 2008

McMINNVILLE, Ore. - Two corner kicks proved the difference as Pacific Lutheran defeated Linfield 2-0 Sunday afternoon in a physical Northwest Conference matchup that saw both goals tallied in the first half.

PLU kept pace in the NWC title chase, moving to 4-2-1 in league play and 6-5-1 overall.

The Lutes were the first off the mark, capitalizing on a set piece to grab the lead in the eighth minute. PLU played a short corner kick from the left side to a low cross that flew through traffic to Surafel Worku, who had an easy tap-in at the far post.

Slick team passing allowed the Lutes to open up the Linfield defense in the 23rd minute. Ricky Morales broke into the box, but starting Wildcats goalie Joe Locascio was out in front quickly to stifle the danger.

Colin Bebee (Jr., Duvall, Wash.) garnered the first opportunity for the ‘Cats with six minutes left in the half. After slipping by a Lutes defender on the right side of the 18-yard box, Bebee slid a low shot which deflected out for a corner.

Pacific Lutheran scored its second point off another corner kick, replicating the first goal with 10 minutes left in the half. A short corner was crossed through the box and ended up at the feet of Lance Davis. With time and space, Davis slid his shot inside the right post to double the Lutes’ advantage.

Linfield came out firing for the second half and immediately created an opportunity. Bebee freed up Kyle Wallace for a shot from 24 yards, but the low drive flashed wide.

Kevin Donato (Jr., McMinnville, Ore.) appeared to draw the Wildcats within one goal with a header in the 65th minute, but he was whistled offside. Linfield continued to create half chances, but couldn’t find the final finish.

Travis Isaacs (Sr., Damascus, Ore.) had the best opportunity of the second half with 15 minutes left. Michel Camacho (Jr., Vancouver, Wash.) released Isaacs into the box for a one-on-one opportunity, but Isaacs’ low shot was smothered by starting Lutes keeper Daniel Mangum.

The Wildcats outshot PLU 14-13, with 7-10 shots on target. Locascio made eight saves, while Mangum made seven.

COMING UP: The Wildcats (6-6, 2-5 NWC) head out on their longest conference road trip of the season next weekend when they visit Whitman Saturday and Whitworth on Sunday. Both matches start at 2:30 p.m.

Kevin Donato
Offsides call wipes away goal