Paige Clawson Assistant Athletic Trainer (Soccer) | University of Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics Website
Paige Clawson Assistant Athletic Trainer (Soccer) | University of Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics Website
Illinois soccer (2-0-1) battled to a 1-1 draw in a Braggin' Rights showdown against Missouri (1-1-1) at Demirjian Park.
Regan Moody's 73rd-minute header gave the Illini the lead, but it was short-lived as the Tigers equalized in the 79th minute.
The visitors began the match on the front foot, forcing Illinois goalkeeper Izzy Lee into a pair of saves in the first 15 minutes. Lee again was up to the task in the 26th minute, making a great reaction save from point blank to keep the contest scoreless. The Western Springs, Ill., native made four saves in the first half, leading to a scoreless break.
Missouri opened the second half with four corners in under three minutes of play, but Illinois' defense held firm, with Lee taking command of the penalty area to claim several chances.
The Tigers nearly opened scoring in the 58th minute when an attacker broke free alone on goal, but a sliding stop from Lee turned away the threat.
As Illinois began to control more of the contest, they won a corner in the 72nd minute. Ella Karolak delivered an in-swinging ball into the penalty area where Moody found space unmarked from six yards out and headed it into the net for her first career goal. She became Illinois' ninth different goalscorer this season.
Missouri equalized soon after in the 79th minute by being first to a loose ball inside Illinois' penalty area.
The Tigers nearly stole a win in final seconds of match, but Lee's seventh save secured draw and pushed Illini's unbeaten run to open season to three games.
Illinois will be back in action on Sunday as they welcome Illinois State to Demirjian Park. Kickoff is set for 5 p.m. CT.
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