McMINNVILLE, Ore. - A second-half goal proved to be the difference once again as the Whitworth women's soccer team dropped another close contest, 1-0 at Linfield on Saturday afternoon.

Whitworth (1-6-1, 0-4 NWC) fell short in its third-consecutive 1-0 loss, while Linfield improved to 6-1, 3-1.

Tegan Grunwald scored for the Wildcats in the 78th minute, putting away a deflected ball after Andrea Stump blocked a shot by Linfield forward Emily Fellows.

Stump put together a strong effort in goal, recording six saves. The Wildcats pressured the Pirates, taking 20 shots compared with four by the Pirates. Linfield also had a 7-0 advantage in shots on goal.

"We put in a solid effort against Linfield," head coach Jael Hagerott said. "At times our touch let us down which made it difficult to gain momentum. Dre (Stump) and our back line played very well."

The Pirates are still yet to allow more than two goals in a match, but have been held scoreless in their last three matches. A second-half goal has made the difference in each of the last three losses for the Pirates. 

Linfield's win marked the sixth-consecutive victory for the Wildcats against Whitworth. The Pirates will attempt to break the streak when they host the Wildcats on Oct. 26 at the Whitworth Soccer Field.

Whitworth continues conference play Sunday with a match at Pacific (Ore.).