KIRKLAND, Wash. --- The Park University Gilbert women's soccer team (1-1-0) dropped a 3-2 decision to the Northwest University Eagles (1-0-0), Saturday morning at NU Athletic Field in Kirkland, Wash.
The Buccaneers found themselves in a 2-0 hole at halftime, as Northwest scored twice in the opening 45 minutes. Megan Hurley opened the scoring in the 21st minute before Laura Rice doubled the Eagles' advantage just over 10 minutes later.
Northwest extended its lead in the 73rd minute, as Jersey Walker found the back of the net to put the Eagles ahead 3-0.
The Buccaneers refused to go quietly, however, as Park-Gilbert began its comeback effort with just over seven minutes remaining. Junior forward
Yadira Bernal cut the deficit to two in the 83rd minute off an assist from junior forward
Darienne Thompson.
Just four minutes later, sophomore midfielder
Sarai Mizzell found the back of the net to bring the Bucs within one.
Mikenzie Kulish picked up the assist on the play, but Park-Gilbert was unable to find the equalizer before the final whistle.
Despite the loss, the Buccaneers continued to create offensive opportunities throughout the contest, finishing with 17 shots, including eight shots on goal. Northwest recorded 18 shots and 12 shots on goal.
In net for Park-Gilbert was sophomore goalkeeper
Journey Morimoto, who played all 90 minutes and recorded nine saves.
The contest marked the second meeting between Park-Gilbert and Northwest University. The Eagles also won the first matchup between the two programs, a 1-0 decision in 2025.
Park-Gilbert women's soccer will return home Thursday, Aug. 27 at 7:00 p.m. MST, when the Bucs host Nelson University (AZ) at Arizona Athletic Grounds in Mesa, Ariz.
