By ISU Sports Information
CHAMPAIGN – The Illinois State soccer team fell to 0-2 on the season Sunday when it dropped a 1-0 decision to Illinois (2-0) at the Illinois Soccer Stadium.
A first-half goal from the Fighting Illini from Illinois decided the match, as the Redbirds could not come up with the equalizer.
“We knew heading into the weekend that we were going to face two high-quality teams and programs, and that proved to be true,” coach Eric Golz said. “We also knew we were going to gain some valuable experience and get better with each game. I thought we did that today,”
The deciding goal came in the 30th minute off a cross by Hope D’Addario from midfield to Allison Stucky, who was able to get through the ISU defense inside the 18 and shoot near post past freshman goalkeeper Haley Smith, who registered three saves between the pipes.
After trying to adjust to Illinois’ system of play over the first 45 minutes, the Redbirds countered with a few tweaks and were able to take control in the second half, almost doubling their shot count to finish with 15, including 10 on net, while limiting the Fighting Illini to only two shots on goal for the remainder of the match
Senior Lauren Koehl took a team-high four shots and was one of six players to record one shot on goal. Sophomore Kiley Czerwinski and freshman Abby Basler each recorded a pair of shots, which both required a save, as Illinois goalkeeper Michelle Denley was forced to make 10 saves.
“We executed some things very well and had a number of opportunities to equalize,” Golz said. “We created quality chances and did well in disrupting how they wanted to play. We took another step today, and I like the resolve and direction of the team.”
ISU returns to action Thursday, Aug. 25 when it returns to Adelaide Street Field to host Marquette, with kickoff slated for 7 p.m.
