Box Score

PORTLAND, Ore. – A late goal from Alberto Casas sent Warner Pacific to a crucial 2-1 victory over 14th ranked Concordia at David Douglas High School tonight.

The result secures the #3 seed in the Cascade Conference Tournament for the Knights, who improved to 9-8-1 overall and 8-5-1 in league counters. The visiting Cavaliers, who were gunning for an unbeaten season in CCC play, fell to 13-3-2 overall and 12-1-1 in conference action.

The host Knights tallied the first goal in the 15th minute off the boot of Almir Celebic, who finished from six yards away. His goal stood up for the rest of the half despite CU attempting eight shots, four of which were on target.

The Cavaliers continued to press forward in the second half, and were rewarded with a penalty kick in the 59th minute after a foul in the box. Septi Danciu calmly converted the try for his 15th goal of the season.

Concordia continued to keep the pressure on, though the Knight back line snuffed out most attacks before any danger.

Late in the game, WP found some space on the left flank and Alberto Casas took advantage. The sophomore used some skilled footwork to shed a defender and fired at a tough angle to beat Cav keeper Scott Gross to the right side netting.

Surging forward to find the equalizer, Concordia tested WP keeper Drew Bonifacio but the senior was equal to the challenge. Danciu broke free at the top of the penalty area and shot to the far post, only to see Bonifacio reach back with one hand to deny the sure goal.

As time ticked under 60 seconds, Bonfacio again came up big, punching away a looping header from Keith Thorkildson that was curving to the top corner.

Concordia would end with 20 total shots compared to eight for WPC. Bonifacio made eight saves on the night, while CU netminder Gross stopped two shots.

Warner Pacific will face #2 seed Evergreen on Tuesday, November 6th in Lacey, Washington. As the #1 seed, Concordia will host Northwest University same day.