SANTA CLARA, Calif. - Santa Clara (6-6-2) controlled play from start to finish in a convincing 3-1 victory over Oregon State (2-8-4) on Saturday evening at Stevens Stadium. The Broncos dominated possession and created numerous scoring opportunities, outshooting the visiting Beavers 29-8 in front of 1,247 fans.
Raygen Lewis put the Broncos ahead in the first minute, capitalizing on a well-placed assist from Kennedy Schoennauer. Mailin Orozco doubled Santa Clara's advantage in the 5th minute with a clinical finish. Though Adele Schwab pulled one back for Oregon State in the 9th minute, Lia Henkelmann restored the two-goal cushion in the 19th minute with a left-footed strike off Hildi Benediktsdottir's setup. Isa Calderon scored a consolation goal for the Beavers in the 44th minute, assisted by Nathalie Lewis.
The first half showcased Santa Clara's attacking prowess, as they registered 15 shots to Oregon State's 4. The Broncos' high press caused problems for the Beavers' backline, with Mailin Orozco and Kat Jordan repeatedly testing goalkeeper Mya Sanchez. A yellow card to Oregon State's Hailey Martinez in the 25th minute reflected the mounting pressure from the home side.
Santa Clara maintained their dominance after the break, creating several quality chances through their midfield rotation. The Broncos made strategic substitutions, bringing on fresh attackers Tori Powell and Leah O'Brien to maintain their pressing intensity. Oregon State struggled to build meaningful attacks, managing just four shots in the second half despite increased possession.
The final statistics highlighted Santa Clara's superiority, as they recorded 10 shots on target to Oregon State's 3. The Broncos also held a decisive 9-4 advantage in corner kicks. Mya Sanchez made 7 saves for Oregon State, while Santa Clara's Ally Harrison was called upon for 2 stops.
Individual performances stood out on both sides. Santa Clara's Mailin Orozco was particularly dangerous, recording 5 shots including her goal. Lia Henkelmann controlled the midfield while adding the crucial third goal. For Oregon State, Isa Calderon provided a bright spot with her late first-half strike, while Mya Sanchez's goalkeeping prevented the score from becoming more lopsided.
Tactically, Santa Clara's high-pressing 4-3-3 formation proved effective in disrupting Oregon State's build-up play. The Broncos' quick ball movement and strategic use of width created numerous crossing opportunities. The Beavers attempted to counter through direct play but struggled to maintain possession in dangerous areas.
This victory continues Santa Clara's bounce-back from recent setbacks against Pepperdine and Pacific, improving their record to .500 on the season. For Oregon State, the loss extends their challenging campaign, though Calderon's goal and several promising counterattacks provide building blocks for improvement.
The match ultimately demonstrated Santa Clara's superior attacking quality and tactical execution. The Broncos' ability to create chances consistently while limiting Oregon State's opportunities proved decisive. Santa Clara will look to build on this performance when they travel to Gonzaga next week, while Oregon State returns home to face Washington State, both matches scheduled for October 22.