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 faced a narrow defeat against Indiana, ending with a score of 2-1 at Demirjian Park on Thursday night. The team’s record now stands at 4-3-2 for the season, including a 2-1-0 home record.
The game began evenly until Indiana took the lead in the 18th minute with a counterattack. Illinois sought an equalizer, forcing several saves from Indiana's goalkeeper. Lia Howard came close to scoring in the 21st minute with a header.
In the 34th minute, Sarah Foley set up Sydney Stephens down the right wing. Stephens scored her fourth goal of the season with a shot over the keeper from the edge of the penalty area, leveling the score at 1-1.
Indiana regained their lead in the 39th minute after a scramble in Illinois' penalty area and held onto their advantage going into halftime.
After halftime, Illinois applied pressure and created opportunities but could not find another equalizing goal. Julia Cili made six saves during the match, including tipping a long-range shot over the bar in the 61st minute.
Illinois’ best chance to score again came in the 67th minute when Stephens drove downfield and passed to Foley for a shot that was saved by Indiana’s goalkeeper.
Despite mounting pressure and four corner kicks late in the game, Illinois was unable to capitalize on their chances. The team is scheduled to play No. 19 Michigan next Sunday at Demirjian Park, with kickoff set for 1:00 p.m. CT.
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