Columbia Basin continued its impressive NWAC run Wednesday afternoon with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Spokane on the home pitch. The Hawks improved to 8-1 overall and a perfect 6-0 in league play, showcasing both resilience and defensive grit in front of their supporters.

The first half saw Columbia Basin control much of the possession and pace, generating eight total shots while forcing Spokane goalkeeper Danika Curtis into five saves before halftime. Meche Fernandez, Zoey Forst, and Allie Draper all tested the Spokane defense, while midfield anchors Myah Giles and Joelee Green-Cerrillo dictated tempo in transition. Despite the pressure, the match remained scoreless after 45 minutes.

The breakthrough came early in the second half. In the 57th minute, defender Sophia Medina surged forward and delivered the decisive strike, slotting home the game's only goal. It was a moment of composure and quality finishing that ignited the Hawks' bench and proved enough to separate the two sides. Medina later earned a yellow card for a strong challenge, but her impact was undeniable.

From there, Columbia Basin leaned on its defensive organization. Goalkeeper Sam Groesbeck recorded five saves to preserve the clean sheet, including key stops on Spokane. The back line of Medina, Darby Adams, Haylee John, and Yadricia Aguilar-Gomez held firm under late pressure, blocking lanes and clearing dangerous balls.

The Hawks closed out the final minutes with discipline, weathering Spokane's push for an equalizer. The result not only extended Columbia Basin's winning streak but also reaffirmed their standing as one of the NWAC's most balanced teams, capable of striking at the right moment while locking down defensively.

Columbia Basin will now look to carry its momentum into the second half of league play.