SPOKANE, Wash. — The Gonzaga University soccer team (3-6-3, 0-3-2) fell to Oregon State University (7-3-2, 3-0-2) in a 5-4 defeat at Luger Field, despite a remarkable hat trick from the Zags' offense. Drew Pedersen's performance was particularly noteworthy as his hat trick marked the first for Gonzaga since Nick Ulowetz achieved the feat with three goals against San Diego on October 28, 2016.

The first half began with Oregon State taking an early lead as Fran Cortijo scored in the third minute, assisted by Tim Hoffman. The Bulldogs responded as Morgan Olson, assisted by Pedersen, found the back of the net to narrow the gap to 2-1 in the 19th minute.

Momentum shifted when Pedersen scored again in the 28th minute, leveling the score with an assist from Paul Jones. GU continued to press and took the lead in the 43rd minute with Pedersen's second goal, this time assisted by Terry Watson. The half ended with the Zags ahead 3-2, successfully overcoming the initial deficit.

The second half began with a critical momentum shift when Chema Preciado saved a penalty kick from Arnau Farnos at the 60:28 mark, keeping the score level. Despite the defensive effort, Oregon State equalized in the 66th minute through an Arnau Farnos goal, assisted by Lucas Fernandez-Kim, tying the match at 3-3.

Gonzaga responded swiftly as Pedersen scored in the 73rd minute, assisted by Alex Bazia, to regain a 4-3 lead. However, Oregon State quickly answered, with Sava Catlett leveling the score once more at 4-4 in the 77th minute.

The visiting team then gained the advantage in the 85th minute with a penalty kick conversion by Andrew De Gannes, bringing the score to 5-4. The half concluded with the Bulldogs trailing by one goal, as the match ended with Oregon State leading 5-4.

Pedersen scored a hat trick and added an assist, finishing with three goals and one assist. Chema Preciado recorded six saves over the course of 90 minutes. Morgan Olson found the back of the net once, contributing to the team's goal tally. Terry Watson provided an assist, adding to the team's offensive efforts.

The Zags hold a record of 3-6-3 overall and 0-3-2 in conference play. Oregon State stands at 7-3-2 overall and 3-0-2 in the conference.

Looking ahead, GU will travel to Stockton, CA, to face Pacific on Saturday. The matchup is set to begin at 7 p.m. PT, offering an opportunity for the Bulldogs to secure a win on the road.