Christopher Hamilton Assistant Strength & Conditioning Coach | University of Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics Website
Christopher Hamilton Assistant Strength & Conditioning Coach | University of Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics Website
Illinois soccer (5-5-2, 1-2-1) achieved a significant victory in Big Ten play with a 1-0 shutout against Maryland (3-6-4, 0-4-1) at Demirjian Park.
Sarah Foley's eighth goal of the season from the penalty spot in the 17th minute secured the win for Illinois. The team held Maryland to just one shot on goal throughout the match.
Maryland initially appeared strong by winning a corner kick seconds into the game, but Illinois quickly took control. Emma Yee and Sarah Foley had shots blocked early on as Illinois dominated possession.
The decisive moment came when Mya Archibald intercepted an errant pass near the penalty area and was fouled. Foley converted the resulting penalty kick, sending it into the bottom right corner of the net.
Foley's eight goals this season are the most by an Illini player since 2018.
Illinois almost extended their lead in the 23rd minute when Lia Howard’s close-range attempt was saved by Maryland’s keeper. Claire Murray also had a chance in the 29th minute, but another save kept Illinois’ lead at one.
By halftime, Illinois led with an 11-2 advantage in shots and forced three saves from Maryland’s goalkeeper.
The second half began slowly for both teams. Angie Galo had a shot saved in the 58th minute, and Izzy Lee made her first save of the match in the 66th minute off a free kick from Maryland.
Maryland nearly equalized in the 70th minute with a long-distance shot that grazed the crossbar. However, Illinois maintained their lead to secure their first conference win of the season and end a four-match winless streak.
Illinois will next face Purdue on Sunday, Oct. 6, at West Lafayette, Ind., with kickoff scheduled for noon CT.
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