Washington State soccer’s comeback attempt falls short in 3-2 loss to No. 2 USC

PULLMAN – Leah Pruitt had a goal and an assist to lead second-ranked USC to a 3-2 women’s soccer victory over No. 19 Washington State on Saturday.

The Trojans (12-1-1, 5-1-0 Pac-12) scored the match’s opening goal in the 38th minute as Pruitt converted from the penalty spot.

USC doubled its lead in the 54th minute on a Tara McKeown goal assisted by Jalen Woodward.

Washington State didn’t wait long to cut into the Trojans’ advantage, as Maddy Hero converted a penalty kick in the 55th minute. It was Haro’s first goal of the season.

USC again grew its lead to two goals in the 63rd minute on a Penelope Hocking strike.

Washington State’s final goal came from Molly Myers in the 72nd minute after the freshman forward got on the end of a Haro free kick and put it past USC goalkeeper Kaylie Collins.

Collins finished with five saves, while WSU goalkeeper Rachel Thompson had two stops. The Trojans outshot the Cougars 18-16, but WSU put more shots on goal (7-5).

The Cougars will hit the road next for a Thursday match at Arizona State (11 a.m.).