PEKIN, Ill. -- The Illinois State women's soccer team defeated UIS, 2-1, in exhibition on Thursday night at an indoor facility in Pekin, Ill. This was ISU's second and final exhibition match of the season.
The 'Birds started off the match strong, putting heavy pressure on the UIS defense. Illinois State found themselves in multiple goal scoring opportunities early, and eventually found the back of the net. Freshman Haley Glover fired one to the back right corner of the goal, giving the Redbirds an early 1-0 lead. Redshirt senior Abby Basler had the assist on the goal. The 'Birds continued to put pressure on the Prairie Star's defense throughout the half.Â
UIS struck back late in the first half to even up the game, 1-1.
In the second half the Redbirds continued to put pressure on the UIS end of the field, having multiple close attempts on corner kicks. Midway through the half junior Riley O'Brien was able to locate the ball through the traffic in front of the net for the score, making it a 2-1 advantage for the Redbirds. The game-winning goal was assisted by senior Ashley Santos.
Redshirt sophomore Priya Gillan played in goal for the majority of the first half, allowing no goals and making two saves. Redshirt junior Jenny Scara subbed into the game in goal for the Redbirds to finish off the half and start the second. Freshman Dani Grgas checked in as the goalkeeper midway through the second half and finished off the game in goal for the 'Birds.Â
The Illinois State women's soccer team is back in action on Saturday, Feb. 20, as the 'Birds travel to St. Louis to take on the Billikens at 2 p.m. That match will be the 'Birds last one before the start of conference play kicks off.Â
For all the latest on Illinois State soccer, stay tuned at GoRedbirds.com and follow the team on social media (Twitter, Facebook, Instagram).
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