Sammy Jo Prudhomme Assistant Coach | University of Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics Website
Sammy Jo Prudhomme Assistant Coach | University of Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics Website
Fighting Illini soccer secured a crucial victory with a 2-1 win over Purdue at Demirjian Park on Sunday. This win brings the team's season record to 6-6-3 and their Big Ten play record to 2-4-2. The Illini have now won four of their last five matchups against the Boilermakers.
Lia Howard opened the scoring for Illinois with a goal in the third minute, assisted by Sydney Stephens. Howard's goal brought her season total to four, tying her with Stephens as the team leader in goals and points.
Purdue equalized in the 16th minute after applying pressure following a corner kick. Despite several opportunities, including a notable chance by Abby Lynch in the 32nd minute, Illinois could not regain the lead before halftime.
After halftime, Illinois took back control eight minutes into the second half when Makala Woods scored from close range following contributions from Sarah Hiestand, Kennedy Berschel, Sarah Foley, Lia Howard, and Mya Archibald.
The Illini defense held firm throughout the second half, limiting Purdue to four shots and relying on key saves from goalkeeper Julia Cili. Ella Karolak made a crucial block in the final seconds to ensure Illinois' victory.
Illinois will next face Michigan State on Thursday in East Lansing at 6:00 p.m. CT.
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