CLAREMONT, CA. – The Sagehens defeated Linfield University 3-1 on Saturday afternoon at home.
Season Impact: With the win, the Sagehens start the season 2-0-0.
The Sagehens wasted little time getting on the board, taking a 1-0 lead in the 10' minute off of a Linfield own-goal. Just nine minutes later, Ryo Kasai doubled the advantage, finishing off an assist from Kieran Veloria to put the Sagehens ahead 2-0. Kasai continued his strong performance late in the first half, scoring his second goal of the match in the 39' minute with an assist from Khalab Blagburn. The Sagehens took a 3-0 lead into halftime after a dominant opening 45 minutes.
Linfield responded early in the second half, cutting the deficit to 3-1 in the 58' minute. The Sagehens answered by settling back into their defensive shape and protecting their two-goal advantage. Gavin Honey came up with a key save in the 63' minute, helping keep the Sagehens comfortably in front. Pomona-Pitzer continued to make changes throughout the second half, with several players seeing time on the field as the Sagehens managed the remainder of the match. The Sagehens closed out the final minutes without allowing another goal, securing the 3-1 victory.
Kasai led the way offensively with two goals, while Veloria and Blagburn each added an assist. Honey anchored the Sagehens in goal as Pomona-Pitzer held Linfield to one goal across the 90 minutes.
Up Next: The Sagehens will take on Willamette University at home tomorrow September 6th at 10:00 am.
