NAMPA, Idaho – Northwest Nazarene forward Logan Wood had a junior year to forget.

Based on his play Saturday, though, teams will do well to remember him during his senior year.

Wood scored twice and the Nighthawks knocked off NCAA Division III Whitworth 3-2 in an exhibition match Saturday at NNU Field.

"It's definitely a relief," he said. "Knock on wood. So far it's been good. I haven't gotten any injuries and I've been able to put a couple away."

Wood scored five goals in an injury-abbreviated sophomore year, but then failed to capitalize on seven chances as a junior. This preseason he has scored three times as the Nighthawks won two exhibitions and a scrimmage.

"It's nice to see Logan coming back this year," NNU coach Joel DeLass said. "Hopefully he can continue it in the regular season. A great start for him."

Wood opened the scoring with a goal in the 27th minute off an assist by Jose Labanino-Ramos. He scored his second in the 34th minute when he attempted to cross the ball to a teammate, but it ended up going into the back of the net.

Wood was pleased with how his teammates played as they prepare for their season opener at 3 p.m. Thursday against Cal State Los Angeles.

"We are working on a new concept and a new formation and we have been trying to get that down," Wood said. "I think today, starting out 3-0, we got confidence there."

Rafael Junqueira scored in the 64th minute to close the scoring for the Nighthawks. Jacob Hillyer made three saves while allowing a goal and Alex Nadermann made one save and gave up a goal as well.

NNU outshot Whitworth 25-9, including 16-6 on goal.

"It was nice to finish our preseason with three wins," DeLass said. "The level is going to go up with our opponents starting Thursday, so it will be interesting to see if we can translate a quality preseason against better players.

"I thought our first group and the subs that came on for them in the first half did really, really well."