Birds Fall to Bears, 1-0

NORMAL, Ill. – Despite a strong effort, Illinois State (5-9-3, 3-4-2 MVC) fell to MVC-leading Missouri State (10-4-3, 8-0-1 MVC) 1-0 Thursday night at Adelaide Street Field.  

Illinois State weathered an early storm from the Bears, who struck in the 11th minute, and fought for an equalizing goal but couldn't connect. Illinois State nearly had a 1-0 lead of its own, as Eiley Henderson's header near the post went wide in the opening minute of play.  

Madi Valenti made a big stop for the Birds for her first save of the game, before Missouri State quickly organized a second opportunity that found that back of the net. The first stop was one of three saves for Valenti on the night.  

The Redbirds pushed to level the score in the second half and created a dangerous opportunity in the 84th minute. Ava Watson's shot from the wing sailed towards the crossbar and Missouri State goalkeeper Camille Day got a glove on it to force a corner kick.  

Despite the loss, Illinois State clinched a bid to the 2024 MVC Tournament, as other league results fell in their favor. It marks the first trip to the MVC Tournament for the Redbirds since the spring 2020-21 campaign.  

UP NEXT 

The Birds cap off the regular season against UNI at home on Senior Day. Kickoff is set for Noon.  

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