LA GRANDE, Ore. – Finding the back of the net just two minutes into the match, Eastern Oregon set the tone early and secured a decisive 3-1 victory over Bushnell at Community Stadium.
The early score came in the form of a strike from Abner Hernandez, assisted by Yonas Mekonnen at the 2:34 mark. The momentum continued in the 2nd period as Daniel Kropf netted a goal with an assist from Carlos Rodriguez at 49:02, followed closely by an unassisted goal from Milton Hernandez at 51:53. Bushnell managed to get on the board in the 2nd period with a goal from Jay Jay Van Der Velde, but it would not be enough to overcome the three score deficit established by EOU.
Eastern Oregon had the edge in shots with 17 attempts compared to Bushnell’s 14. Both teams were close in saves, with Eastern Oregon’s goalkeeper making 4 saves and Bushnell’s making 3. Eastern Oregon picked up 14 fouls compared to Bushnell’s 9, but accumulated one less yellow card then the Beacons with just two.
Bushnell’s goalie, Kainalu Smith, had 3 saves against 6 shots on goal but let 3 goals in, leading to the loss. On the other side, Kevin Pullara of Eastern Oregon faced 5 shots on goal, saved 4, and allowed just 1 goal, securing the win for his team.
EOU will return to Community Stadium tomorrow evening at 4:00 p.m. when they face the Warriors of Corban University. Saturday’s contest will be senior night for six Mounties, so make sure to come out and help us honor their commitment to the program over the years.
