PORTLAND, Oregon - Portland State (3-6-2) secured a crucial 1-0 victory over Northern Arizona (4-4-5) on Thursday afternoon when a late own goal in the 87th minute proved the difference at Hillsboro Stadium. The match, played before a crowd of 312, saw both teams create numerous chances before the decisive moment.
The game's only goal came in dramatic fashion in the 87th minute when an Ocean Rideout shot struck the woodwork and deflected off a Northern Arizona defender into their own net. The unfortunate bounce broke what had been a tense defensive deadlock throughout the match.
The first half saw both teams generate quality opportunities, with Northern Arizona's Avery Ott testing the Portland State defense with shots in the 5th and 16th minutes. Micala Boex also threatened for the Lumberjacks with attempts in the 19th and 21st minutes. Portland State responded through Kainani Jacang and Ocean Rideout, who both recorded shots in the 25th minute, while Grace Sarabia added another attempt in the 29th minute.
The second half intensity increased as Portland State pressed for a breakthrough. Grace Sarabia and Kalo Iongi both came close with shots in the 48th and 50th minutes respectively. The Vikings maintained pressure through Ocean Rideout, who had multiple attempts including the crucial 87th-minute shot that led to the winning goal. Northern Arizona's Avery Ott remained dangerous, forcing a blocked shot in the 55th minute.
Portland State held a statistical advantage throughout the contest, outshooting Northern Arizona 15-10, with three shots on target compared to the Lumberjacks' two. The Vikings also earned five corner kicks to Northern Arizona's four, demonstrating their attacking intent throughout the match.
Several players stood out individually during the tight contest. Ocean Rideout was particularly influential for Portland State, recording multiple shots including the attempt that led to the winning goal. For Northern Arizona, Avery Ott showed consistent threat with three shot attempts, while Micala Boex contributed two shots. Both goalkeepers performed admirably, with Portland State's keeper making three saves and Northern Arizona's recording two stops.
The tactical battle saw Portland State emphasizing wide play through Kalo Iongi and Grace Sarabia, while Northern Arizona looked to counter through the speedy combinations of Ott and Boex. The Vikings' persistence in attack ultimately paid off with the late breakthrough, though the Lumberjacks' organized defensive structure made them difficult to break down for most of the match.
This victory extends Portland State's recent improvement, following their win against Weber State last week. For Northern Arizona, the result marks their second consecutive loss, following a defeat to Northern Colorado, and drops them to 1-2-1 in conference play.
The match showcased both teams' defensive organization, with limited clear-cut chances until the decisive moment. Portland State's pressure finally told in the closing stages, though the manner of victory was perhaps harsh on a Northern Arizona side that had defended resolutely for much of the contest.
Looking ahead, Portland State will aim to build on this momentum when they travel to face Northern Colorado on October 12, while Northern Arizona will look to regroup before hosting Weber State on October 17.