NORMAL, Ill. – It was another fast-paced, high-scoring day at Adelaide Street Field Sunday as the Illinois State soccer team defeated Central Michigan 5-1. The season is only three days old, but the Redbirds have already let opponents know they haven't lost a step after three-straight MVC Tournament crowns.
On another hot day in Normal, the Redbirds received a little help with their first goal. A Central Michigan own goal just six minutes in gave the Redbirds a lead they would never lose. Despite several opportunities afterwards, ISU couldn't find the back of the net. However, in the 34th minute Emily Dickman had the breakthrough for her first collegiate goal off an assist from Keri Kujawa and it would prove to be the game-winner.
Up 2-0 at halftime, ISU wasted no time burying the Chippewas in the second half. Hannah Leinert, last season's MVC leader in goals, netted her first of the year off beautiful passing. Rachel Tejada and Ali Farkos were credited with assists. Less than two minutes later, the trio hooked up again with Tejada and Farkos assisting Leinert on her second goal of the game.
Quick goals have become the norm already in 2014 and ISU got their fifth just 59 seconds after their fourth. Paige Jarsombeck recorded her second of the season off of more stellar passing. This time Brooke Ksiazek and Leinert connected passes to feed Jarsombeck.
CMU's lone goal came with eight minutes remaining off of a penalty kick. ISU outshot the Chippewas 25-4 and Aryn Newsom did not make a save in 76 minutes in the net. While she didn't make a save, she did make history. With the win, Newsom is now the program leader in wins with 37. She passes Becky Feldman for the all-time mark.
For ISU, they advance to 2-0-0 on the season and will have the week off before a trip to Texas. On Friday the Redbirds will take on Sam Houston State and Sunday ISU has a date with No. 9 Texas A&M. Both games will be played in College Station, Texas.
Kickoff next Friday is scheduled for 4 p.m. and the game audio will be broadcast live on Stretch Internet.
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