The Benedictine University Mesa women's soccer team opened the 2026 season at home on Friday, battling Oregon Tech before falling2-0 at the Santos Soccer Complex.
The Redhawks spent much of the evening defending against a relentless Oregon Tech attack, but goalkeeper Nenna Ford and the Benedictine back line kept the match scoreless through the opening 75 minutes. Ford turned away multiple shots in the first half, including saves on efforts from Ryane Mattox, Alejandra Salcedo, Beta Valentine, Kaia Fetch, Olivia Mendoza, and Kaelyn Jaentsch as the Owlscontrolled the majority of possession and chances.
Benedictine's best opportunity of the opening half came in the 16th minute when Cassandra Sandoval sent a shot just wide of the target.Despite Oregon Tech holding a significant advantage in shots, the Redhawks entered halftime locked in a scoreless draw behind Ford's strong performance between the posts.
The pressure continued after the break as Oregon Tech generated a series of corner kicks and scoring chances. Ford remained outstanding,recording additional saves throughout the second half to keep the match even. Sandoval recorded Benedictine's first shot on goal of the contest in the 60th minute, while Rebecca Tomerlin tested Oregon Tech goalkeeper Elle Hillar with a save in the 76th minute.
Moments later, Oregon Tech finally broke through. In the 77th minute, Ramera Bradley finished a pass from Shelby Geiger to give the Owls a 1-0 lead.
The visitors added insurance eight minutes later when Makahl Chambers converted a penalty kick in the 85th minute to make it 2-0.
