Chambana Sun

Illinois soccer improved to a 6-0-0 record after defeating Missouri 2-0 in Columbia, marking the program's second-best start. The only better start was by the 2004 team, which began its season with seven consecutive wins. Head coach Katie Hultin became the first in Illinois soccer history to win her first six games.

Goalkeeper Izzy Lee recorded her fifth shutout of the season, surpassing her previous single-season best of four from last year and earning her 10th career clean sheet. Lee made five saves during the match, including two critical stops within about 40 seconds in the 57th minute as Missouri increased its offensive pressure.

Lia Howard scored what proved to be the game-winning goal in the 47th minute after receiving a pass from Emma Yee. Howard moved past a defender and placed her shot into the far-right side of the net for her first goal of the season and ninth overall. It was also her fifth career game-winning goal.

Emma Yee contributed both an assist on Howard’s goal and scored herself in the 60th minute, picking up a loose ball and navigating through three defenders before scoring Illinois’ second goal.

Sarah Foley created several opportunities during the first half but did not record any points. Late in that half, she set up a scoring chance that narrowly missed being converted by Ryleigh Wood.

Despite being outshot for a third straight game (9-6) and having fewer shots on goal than Missouri (5-4), Illinois capitalized on its chances while Lee preserved another shutout.

Illinois will play again Sunday at Demirjian Park against Valparaiso for senior day at 1 p.m. CT.