Chambana Sun

The Fighting Illini secured a late-game victory over the Leathernecks, improving their season record to 14-17, while the Leathernecks fell to 8-24. Key performances at the plate helped Illinois clinch the win, with Eileen Donahue going 2-for-3, hitting a home run, and driving in two runs. Stevie Meade added to the offensive push with a 3-for-5 outing, also collecting two RBIs. Adisyn Caryl contributed with two hits from four at-bats, including a pivotal walk-off double.

The game saw Illinois take an early lead with two runs in the first inning, highlighted by Donahue's home run with Yazzy Avila on base. In the next inning, an RBI single by Meade extended Illinois' lead to 3-0. Although the Leathernecks evened the score at four in the fifth inning, Illinois quickly reclaimed the lead with an RBI single from sophomore Alaina Miller, making it 5-4.

The Leathernecks mounted their own comeback, taking a 6-5 lead, but the Fighting Illini responded with two runs in the seventh inning. The game concluded with Caryl's two-out RBI double, securing the victory for Illinois.

Illinois dominated Western Illinois offensively with a 14-9 hit advantage and a strong .421 batting average with runners in scoring positions. Defensively, Illinois pitchers held the Leathernecks to only 1-for-9 with runners in scoring positions. The win also marked Illinois' seventh victory in eight games against Western Illinois, and they improved their record to 4-2 while wearing anthracite uniforms. Every Illinois starter reached base safely during the game.