DES MOINES, Iowa – Jordan Walgren's second goal of the year in the second half was all the offense Western Illinois (6-6-1) needed to defeat Drake (2-8-3) Wednesday night. Laura Atkinson earned her second consecutive shutout in net.

"It was a great win on the road for us," said head coach Ted Flogaites. "I thought we got dominated in the first half and then were the better side in the second half. I felt we were building momentum and becoming sharper as the second half progressed. It was a stylistic battle with them intent on playing their way and us refusing to get lured into that. We had to stay true to our footballing principles as a squad. The entire key to the match was winning balls aerially in the midfield."

Tiara Herron had the first good opportunity for Western when she forced Drake goalkeeper Andrea Swanson to make an early save in the 12th minute in order to keep the match scoreless.

Although both sides had opportunities, neither was able to find the back of the net in the opening 45 minutes.

Laura Atkinson made four saves in the first half, despite the Bulldogs sending 13 shots her way. Atkinson would make five total saves in the match.

Sarah Hall nearly scored her second goal in as many games in the 50th minute but Swanson was able to make the save. Just a minute later, Chrissy Campbell forced the goalkeeper to work, but once again the Bulldog goalkeeper kept the Leathernecks off the board.

Hall had two more good looks at goal but Swanson denied her both times to keep the Leathernecks and Bulldogs tied at zero.

In the 74th minute, Western broke through. After Sloane Levin came into the match, she found Jordan Walgren at the top of the box who then finished off her chance to put the Leathernecks ahead 1-0.

"Walgren's goal was breathtaking, a superior strike to beat their keeper, who I thought had a very good game. Sloane's entry pass was silky to spring Jordan in and release her for the chance at frame," Flogaites added.

Western Illinois earned two corners within two minutes of each other and each produced dangerous opportunities. The first saw Amber Davis send her shot high while the second produced a shot from Hall that forced another save from Swanson.

Drake had a chance to equalize late, but Kylie DeHaven's shot was blocked and the ensuing corner, which produced a shot from the goalkeeper Swanson, was saved by Atkinson.

The Western defense limited Drake to just four shots in the final 15 minutes of play en route to the team's fourth shutout of the year and the second shutout in as many games.

"Massive credit to Laura and the defense who dealt with a high powered Drake attack," Flogaites continued. "(Jordan) Spaciel, (Lindsay) Condon, (Kristin) Becker and Davis were sensational defensively.  A shutout on the road is always a welcome thing. We are very pleased and now turn our attention to a top quality Denver team, but for tonight we will enjoy the win," Flogaites said.

The Leathernecks will head west to Denver to face the Pioneers Friday night as Summit League play resumes.

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