MURRAY, Ky. – Illinois State soccer opened Missouri Valley Conference play with a 1-0 shutout victory over Murray State on Sunday afternoon at Cutchin Field. The win marks the Redbirds' first 1-0 start to conference play since the 2020-21 season and extends Illinois State's current unbeaten streak to five matches.
"We are really proud of the team's performance," said ISU head coach Raleigh DeRose. "We talked about coming out of the gate strong to begin conference play, and I think the girls really showcased that tenacity throughout the 90 minutes today."
After a scoreless opening half, the Redbirds (6-1-3, 1-0 MVC) found the breakthrough in the 74th minute, as a pair of late substitutions combined to give Illinois State the lead. Ella Rentz scored her first career goal off an assist from Erika Wells, placing the game-winning shot into the back left of the net.
"It's always great to see players come back from difficult injuries, and the perseverance Ella has shown over the past year has been incredible," said DeRose. "She is a tough player with a strong technical finish to her game. Her goal today came at a big-time moment, and the finish from Erika Wells service into the box was exactly what we needed."
Illinois State created several scoring opportunities throughout the afternoon, putting seven shots on goal. Rylann Law led the Redbirds with three shots on target, while Grace Petrie, Aniya Seymore and Sofia Mammoliti also tested the Murray State goalkeeper.
Defensively, the Redbirds held off several Murray State opportunities. Goalkeeper Madi Valenti made five saves, including a stop on a shot late in the match, to clinch the Redbirds' fourth shutout this season.
Valenti now has 196 career saves and 21 career shutouts, inching closer to fourth and third in program history, respectively, in those categories.
Up Next
Illinois State closes its four-game roadstand next Sunday against UIC. The in-state conference matchup is set for 4 p.m. CT at Flames Field.
