KLAMATH FALLS, Ore. – Oregon Tech parlayed two second half goals into a 3-2 comeback victory over visiting Hope International in a nonconference showdown on Monday.
The Royals fell to 3-2-0 on the season while the Lady Owls improved to 3-1-1.
HIU broke into the scoring column in the 21st minute as Ana Pacheco took a cross from Emma Valenzuela and rocketed a shot into the top left corner of the net for the 1-0 lead.
Oregon Tech responded five minutes later with the game-tying goal from Sydney Soskis.
An evenly played match throughout – HIU held a slim 8-7 advantage in shots – the Royals took advantage of an opportunity just a couple minutes before halftime. Isabela Ochoa pounced on a loose ball just inside the box, sending a pass to a wide open Brandi Valdez. The shot by Valdez cleared the outstretched hand of the Lady Owl keeper as HIU grabbed the 2-1 advantage.
HIU's lead dissipated at the 59:39 mark as Miranda Valle sprinted between two defenders and beat Royal goalie Brittany Hazelton to the right corner of the net.
Oregon Tech snapped the tie in the 81st minute when Jaylee Curran feathered a cross through traffic to Solei Elletson, who knocked home the game-winner from 15 yards out.
Indi Stum and Ochoa led the Royals with two shots apiece.
Victoria Ruiz played the first half in goal for HIU. Hazelton handled the second half and made one save.
The Royals are now off for nine days, turning their attention to the start of GSAC play. HIU faces Life Pacific on Wednesday, September 17 at 9:00 a.m.
