An 80th minute goal by senior Kate Del Fava proved the difference, as Illinois State defeated Western Illinois 1-0 at home on Sunday afternoon. With today's result, the Redbirds improve to 4-4-0 on the season, while the Leathernecks drop to 2-4-1.
"Great to get the win at home on Heidecke Day," said head coach Brad Silvey. "This is always a special day, and even more special with a win and a shutout. Our team lacked some sharpness today near Western's goal, but we dug in and eventually created a game winning moment between Natalie and Kate. We've focused a lot on improving within our defensive transition and you could tell our commitment and effort in that area improved substantially. We've performed well at home and earned some exciting results. Now we need to perform on the road for our next three contests."
Illinois State controlled possession for much of the game, outshooting Western Illinois 20-4 and 8-0 in shots on goal. They also maintained a 5-1 advantage in corner kicks.
Del Fava scored the game winner and her ninth goal of the year with just over 10 minutes left in regulation, knocking in a ball from close distance just past the goalkeeper's reach. Natalie Vaughn-Low was credited with the assist, making it the second match in a row the junior has earned points for the Redbirds.
After today's match, Del Fava continues to lead the Missouri Valley Conference in total goals (9) and points (19). The senior midfielder has also moved into sole possession of ninth place in program history in the career points category (41), while sharing eighth place in career goals (17).
Senior Haley Smith got the win in goal, posting her second shutout of the season. Smith and fellow senior Megan McEachern both went the full 90 minutes for Illinois State.
UP NEXT
The 'Birds flock south to Florida for the weekend, taking on North Florida on Friday at 7 p.m. and Stetson on Sunday at 10 a.m.
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