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 team faced a narrow defeat against No. 19 USC, with the final score standing at 3-2. The match took place at Demirjian Park, where Illinois attempted a comeback after falling behind by three goals.
USC initially took control of the game, scoring their first goal in the ninth minute following a coordinated team effort. Despite Illinois' attempts to equalize, including a close chance by Mya Archibald and Lia Howard in the 25th minute and another opportunity for Sarah Foley in the 29th minute, they were unable to convert these into goals.
The Trojans maintained their lead through halftime and quickly extended it just seconds into the second half. A third goal followed in the 73rd minute, putting USC ahead by three.
Illinois responded swiftly with pressure from Foley and Howard leading to a mistake by USC's goalkeeper. Berschel capitalized on this error with a long-range shot that found its way into the net, reducing USC's lead to two.
Continuing their momentum, Illinois scored again when Angie Galo set up Lauren Seppi from a corner kick in the 77th minute. Seppi's precise shot brought Illinois within one goal of tying.
Despite these efforts, Illinois could not find an equalizer before time ran out. The Illini will next face UCLA at Demirjian Park on Sunday at 1 p.m. CT.
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