ELLENSBURG, Wash.- The Central Washington University women's soccer team (2-1-2, 0-1-1 GNAC) battled to a 0-0 draw against Western Washington University (3-1-3, 1-0-1 GNAC) on Saturday afternoon at the CWU Soccer Field. Both teams generated scoring opportunities, but neither could find the back of the net.
 
FIRST HALF
Western Washington outshot the Wildcats 6–2 but was unable to capitalize on its offensive opportunities. Goalkeeper Danika Galbraith was tested early, making a key save in the 1st minute on a shot from Emily Holdridge. At the other end, Sydney Madison recorded CWU's first shot on goal in the 6th minute, rifling an attempt from the corner of the box that forced a save from Ellie McGowan. Galbraith finished the half with five crucial saves to preserve the draw, while the Crimson and Black defense stayed disciplined, holding firm and forcing the Vikings into six offside calls throughout the half.
 
SECOND HALF
The Wildcats came out of the break pressing for a breakthrough, with Jaylee Reynolds firing a shot from outside the box that sailed just wide left. In the 54th minute, Danika Galbraith was called into action again, making a save on an attempt by Reese Walker. Six minutes later, Gianna Doucette tested McGowan with a well-struck shot on target, forcing the Viking keeper to make the stop. Morgan Manalili added another effort in the 81st minute, launching a shot from distance that Galbraith handled cleanly. The Vikings outshot the Wildcats 12–4 in this half. Galbraith made four second half saves to secure the clean sheet, while McGowan finished with two saves to preserve the shutout on her end.
 
QUOTING HEAD COACH JOHN HAWKS
"Another gritty effort and quality response against a high-level opponent in Western Washington…. we are in this current position because of the women in the locker room and their collective effort to give their best and embrace their respective roles in real time! 

That, and the energy and support from our fans gave us wind in our sails to play strong for a full 90…Go Cats!"
 
UP NEXT
The Wildcats hit the road next week, traveling to Monmouth, Oregon for a matchup against No. 16 Western Oregon on Thursday, October 2. Kickoff is set for 2:00 p.m. at the WOU Soccer Field. The road trip continues on Saturday, October 4, as the 'Cats head to Lacey, Washington for a showdown with Saint Martin's. That match is also scheduled for a 2:00 p.m. kickoff at Saints Field.