KLAMATH FALLS, Ore. – Benedictine University Mesa women's soccer battled on the road but couldn't slow down a sharp Oregon Tech attack, falling 4–0 on Thursday evening.
The Redhawks opened the match with early energy, creating a chance in the 5th minute when Diana Montoya tested OIT goalkeeper Elle Hillar, who came up with the save. However, the Owls struck first in the 16th minute, as Raeah Raymondo converted a penalty kick to put Oregon Tech ahead 1–0.
Benedictine continued to press and rotate players in, but Oregon Tech doubled its lead just before halftime. Olivia Mendoza finished off a ball from Jaylee Curran in the 44th minute to send the Redhawks into the break trailing 2–0.
The second half saw Oregon Tech build on its momentum. In the 51st minute, Claire Cowan scored her first goal of the season to make it 3–0. The Owls sealed the result in the 68th minute when Naaliyah Robinson, assisted by Emma Glazebrook, extended the lead to 4–0.
Despite the deficit, Benedictine Mesa continued to push forward. The Redhawks earned back-to-back corner kicks in the 59th and 61st minutes, and Cahryn Rod nearly found the target with a late effort that sailed high in the 83rd. Goalkeeper Thea Draganova stood strong under pressure, making several saves to keep the scoreline from growing further.
The match featured heavy substitutions and physical play, with Oregon Tech earning a yellow card late in the second half.
With the loss, Benedictine Mesa will look to regroup and bounce back in their next outing, taking lessons from a challenging road test against a tough Owls squad.
Key Players:
Diana Montoya: 1 shot on goal
Thea Draganova: 3 saves
Looking Ahead: The Redhawks are back on the field on Saturday, August 23rd as they take on Southern Oregon University at 8 AM.
