No. 21 Portland beat Santa Clara 5-2, using two quick goals to take control and two late scores to seal the win. The Broncos twice pulled within one, with Ezana Alemayehu scoring his first career goal and contributing to a Portland own goal, but couldn’t complete the comeback. The win clinched Portland the West Coast Conference regular-season title.

By the Numbers
  • Final score: Portland 5, Santa Clara 2.
  • Portland outshot Santa Clara 18-6, including 9-2 in shots on goal.
  • Alex Waggoner and Joe Highfield each scored twice for Portland.
Yes, But

Santa Clara showed resilience, answering Portland’s first two-goal lead twice. But Portland’s attacking pressure proved decisive, and goalkeeper Miguel-Angel Hernandez denied Diego Jalleau’s penalty kick in the 80th minute.

What’s Next

Santa Clara closes its season Saturday against WCC newcomer Denver at Stevens Stadium. Five Bronco seniors will be honored before the 7 p.m. PT kickoff.

Bottom Line

Santa Clara found ways to respond, but Portland’s early momentum and sustained shot advantage were too much to overcome.