SALEM, Ore. -- (From Geoff Sugerman, WU SID) Jonathan Carlson scored eight minutes into the second half as visiting Whitworth College defeated Willamette University 1-0 in the Northwest Conference men’s soccer opener for both teams Saturday afternoon at Sparks Field.

Jon Carlson scored the game winning goal

The Pirates forced Bearcat goalie Dane Meier to make 12 saves as they launched 34 shots (13 on goal), but only Carlson’s goal found the back of the net. Ali Seyadali and Todd Sabrowski both had assists on Carlson’s goal.

The Bearcats managed only five shots in the game, as the Pirate defense held them in check for most of the afternoon. Pirate goalie Kevin Bostock only had to make two saves in the shut out.

Whitworth is now 4-1 overall, 1-0 in NWC play. The Bearcats fall to 2-4, 0-1 NWC.

Both teams return to action Sunday as the Bearcats host Whitman at 2:30 at Sparks Field and the Pirates take on George Fox.