NORMAL, Ill. – The Redbirds (3-4-3, 1-1-2 in MVC) earned their first victory of Missouri Valley Conference play on Sunday afternoon, shutting out the Southern Illinois Salukis (1-7-4, 0-4-1 in MVC) 1-0, at home. Julia Liguore notched her third goal of the season, the third goal of her collegiate career, which was enough to carry Illinois State to the victory.
Liguore's goal came in the 28th minute of the first period to give the Redbirds the lead going into the half. The goal came on the double assist from Kelsi McLaighlin and Katie O'Malley. The Redbirds played incredible defense, with a crucial blocked shot coming from Cyerra Hibbert, to maintain the Redbird lead as well as the shutout.
Audrey Brown went the distance in goal, with three saves, while posting the second clean sheet of the year for the 'Birds. The last Redbird clean sheet was against Eastern Illinois, where Liguore also scored the lone, game-winning goal.
Illinois State returns home to Adelaide Street Field next Sunday, October 8, to take on Murray State. The 'Birds are set to host a Kids Clinic following the game.
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