STOCKTON, CALIFORNIA — Washington St. earned a 2-1 victory over Pacific on Saturday, extending its winning streak to two matches. The Cougars (7-7-5) capitalized on second-half opportunities before 175 spectators, while the Tigers (4-9-6) fell to their third consecutive loss despite controlling possession through much of the first half.
Kaya Rosa gave Pacific an early advantage in the 49th minute, assisted by Faylinn Berkowitz. The Tigers' early pressure reflected their aggressive start, but Washington St. responded methodically. Keira Mitchell equalized for the Cougars in the 23rd minute, setting the stage for a tightly contested remainder of the first half that ended level at 1-1.
Journey Middleborn broke the deadlock in the 47th minute of the second half, assisted by Isabelle Wright, giving Washington St. its decisive lead. The goal proved decisive as Pacific could not find an equalizer despite sustained pressure in the final stages. The Tigers generated multiple scoring chances late but could not convert, with Sierah McCallum and Ashlyn Digioia both missing opportunities in the closing minutes.
Washington St. dominated the statistical battle, recording 9 shot attempts to Pacific's 13, though the Cougars were more clinical in front of goal with 4 shots on target compared to Pacific's 7. The visitors also controlled the game's tempo with 5 corner kicks versus Pacific's 1, reflecting their ability to dictate play in the second half.
Defensive discipline proved crucial throughout. Both teams received two yellow cards each—Aniela Jensen and Ka'ui Lani Pinkney for Pacific, Ava Ghoreishi and Ana De Los Santos for Washington St. The Cougars' goalkeeper made 6 saves to Pacific's 2, underscoring the pressure Washington St. applied after halftime.
Pacific made five substitutions at the halftime break in an attempt to shift momentum, replacing Ashlyn Digioia, Mira Scarsella, Whitney Garn, Yohonna Bell, and Ka'ui Lani Pinkney. Washington St. also rotated three players—Aaya McLyn, Elliotte Kortus, and Maddie Martin—but maintained tactical cohesion. Additional changes came later as both teams sought to influence the match's outcome.