SEATTLE, Wash. — Gonzaga University (3-5-3, 0-2-2) and Seattle University (3-4-5, 1-1-2) played to a 3-3 draw at Championship Field on Wednesday, with Gonzaga's two second-half goals matching Seattle U's scoring pace.
The first half began with Gonzaga quickly conceding a goal in the 2nd minute, as Seattle U's Yeider Zuluaga scored with assistance from Ismael Yeo. The Bulldogs responded by maintaining pressure through multiple attempts, including shots from
Farhan Moustafa and
Morgan Olson, but were initially unable to find the back of the net.
Gonzaga's persistence paid off when
Robbie Mora equalized in the 34th minute, leveling the score at 1-1. The half concluded with both teams locked in a stalemate, as Gonzaga managed to keep the score even at the break.
The second half began with Gonzaga quickly finding their rhythm. Despite an early goal by Seattle U's Yeider Zuluaga, assisted by Patrick Kearney, the Zags responded with several attempts on goal.
Nicholas Bianchi and
Ethan Doud each had shots that went off target, but their persistence paid off in the 69th minute when
Alex Bazia, assisted by
Drew Pedersen and Olson, found the net to narrow the deficit to 3-2.
Continuing to press, Gonzaga's efforts were rewarded again in the 82nd minute. Pedersen, with another assist from Olson, scored the equalizer, leveling the match at 3-3. The half ended with GU having overturned a two-goal deficit and drawing level, maintaining pressure to close out the half.
Pedersen contributed significantly with one goal and one assist, also managing a shot on goal. Bazia added to the offensive efforts by scoring a goal and taking four total shots, two of which were on target. Olson provided two assists and was active offensively with four shots, including one on goal.
Spencer Carle kept the midfield steady, while
Chema Preciado made two saves in goal despite facing 13 shots, conceding three goals.
The Zags hold a record of 3-5-3 overall and 0-2-2 in conference play. Seattle U stands at 3-4-5 overall and 1-1-2 in conference competition.
Looking ahead, the Zags will host Oregon State on Saturday, Oct. 18, at Luger Field in Spokane, Wash. The match is set to begin at 7 p.m. PT.
