SPOKANE, Wash. – Sylvie Washington's goal in the 17th minute held up for Whitworth in a 1-0 win over visiting Linfield on Sunday afternoon in a Northwest Conference women's soccer contest.
The Pirates improved to 2-2 overall and 1-1 in the NWC with the victory while the Wildcats dropped to 2-2-1, 0-2.
The Whitworth defense held the aggressive Linfield offense in check all match. The Wildcats came into the contest averaging almost 12 shots on goal per game, but Pirate keeper Karlee Rodrick did not have to make an official save to post her second clean sheet of the season. She did effectively parry-away several crossing passes and corner kicks throughout the contest.
Whitworth scored its only goal when Washington rose above the crowd and headed in a corner kick from Hailey Herboth in the 17th minute. It was Washington's first goal of the season.
Washington had a chance to double the lead in the 65th minute after Pirate forward Emma Ellerd drew a foul in the penalty area. But Washington's PK flew just over the bar.
Linfield keeper Tati Zahajko made five saves to keep her team in the game.
Whitworth will return to action on Wednesday afternoon when the Pirates host the season's first Battle of Whits against Whitman College at 2:30 pm.
