A Dominant Debut at Pape Field
On October 26, 2025, the Oregon women's soccer team traveled to Pape Field in Eugene, Oregon, to open its 2026 campaign against Gonzaga University, securing a 3-0 victory that improved the Ducks to 2-0.
Goalkeeper Gray Willson was a wall between the Bulldogs and the Oregon net, making a series of high‑pressure saves, highlighted by a diving stop just before halftime that preserved the clean sheet.
A turning point came in the 39th minute when a Gonzaga defender received a red card, forcing a free‑kick that Lauren Hunter converted to put Oregon ahead 1-0.
The lead was doubled in the 56th minute when Abella Hunter struck a well‑placed shot, extending the advantage to 2-0, and she added a third goal later in the half to seal a 3-0 final score.
Midfielders Shiloh Baird and Carly Cormack orchestrated much of the second‑half pressure, creating chances that tested the Gonzaga defense and helped maintain possession.
Oregon’s back line limited Gonzaga to few clear opportunities, while the team controlled the tempo, especially after the red card, allowing them to dictate play and preserve energy for the next fixture.
The Ducks are already looking ahead to their next test against Santa Clara University on August 20 at 7:30 p.m., a match that will further gauge the squad’s depth and readiness.