PORTLAND, OREGON - Portland (10-0-3) continued their unbeaten season with a commanding 4-1 victory over Pacific (3-10) on Saturday evening at Merlo Field. Joe Highfield netted twice as the Pilots extended their unbeaten streak to 14 matches in front of 2,873 spectators.
Highfield opened the scoring in the 12th minute, converting a well-placed assist from Diego Rosas. David Ajagbe doubled Portland's advantage in the 17th minute off Highfield's setup, before Highfield struck again in the 26th minute from Sebastian Hernandez's feed. Pacific pulled one back through Ezekiel Padilla in the 63rd minute, but Ethan Zamora sealed the result for Portland with their fourth goal in the 73rd minute, assisted by David Ajagbe and Micaah Garnette.
The first half showcased Portland's offensive prowess as they dominated possession and created multiple scoring opportunities. The Pilots' pressure resulted in seven corner kicks, with David Ajagbe and Diego Rosas consistently threatening Pacific's defense. The Tigers struggled to maintain possession in the attacking third, managing just two shots on target before the break.
Pacific showed more attacking intent after halftime, with Massimo Erfani and Jose Maria Barrera creating several dangerous chances. The Tigers' improved play led to Padilla's goal, but Portland's defensive unit, anchored by strong performances from Nikos Clarke-Tosczak and Angel Martinez, prevented any further comeback attempts. Efetobo Aror received the match's only yellow card in the 66th minute for unsporting behavior.
The final statistics reflected Portland's dominance, as they outshot Pacific 17-9, with six shots on target compared to the Tigers' four. The Pilots also held a decisive 7-1 advantage in corner kicks. Both goalkeepers were active throughout the match, with Portland's keeper making three saves while Pacific's recorded two stops.
Joe Highfield's two-goal performance highlighted his importance to Portland's attack, while David Ajagbe contributed a goal and an assist. Massimo Erfani stood out for Pacific, creating several opportunities and assisting on Padilla's goal. Wylie Trujillo's defensive work rate helped Portland maintain control in midfield before being substituted in the 74th minute.
Portland's tactical approach emphasized quick transitions and wing play, with Rosas and Zamora providing width that consistently stretched Pacific's defense. The Tigers attempted to counter through the middle, but Portland's pressing game disrupted their buildup play effectively. The Pilots' substitution pattern, including the introduction of fresh attackers in the second half, helped maintain their high-tempo strategy.
This victory maintains Portland's impressive unbeaten run and solidifies their position as one of the conference's top teams. For Pacific, despite showing improved attacking prowess in the second half, their defensive struggles continue to hamper their season progress. The Tigers have now lost two straight matches, while Portland extends their winning streak.
Looking ahead, Portland will travel to face Santa Clara on October 25, while Pacific returns home to host Gonzaga on the same date. Both matches are scheduled for 10:00 PM kickoffs and could have significant implications for conference standings.