Who | Western Illinois (2-4-3, 0-0-2) at UT-Martin (3-6-2, 0-1-1)
When | Sunday, October 1, 1 PM CDT
Where | Skyhawk Soccer Field | Martin, TN
Social Media | Instagram + Twitter + Facebook

Previous matchup: Sunday's matchup marks the first in the series history between UT-Martin and Western Illinois. The OVC opponents will meet regularly in the future. 

Scouting the opponents: Martin holds a 3-6-2 record overall, with a loss and a draw to start the season in conference play. The Skyhawks opened the conference season against Morehead State with a 2-0 loss, a squad that the Leathernecks held to a scoreless draw. Most recently, they played Little Rock to a one-all draw. Statistically, the Skyhawks are led by Makayla Robinson, who has scored three goals on the season.

So far this season: So far, Western has put together a 2-4-3 record, with wins coming at Chicago State and at home vs. Green Bay. To start OVC play, the Leathernecks let their defensive identity shine, as they played both matches to goalless draws. The Leathernecks have a very young squad, as seven underclassmen have made multiple starts this season. 

Players to watch: Freshmen duo Alanna Pennington and Kelsi McThenia lead the team in goals, as both have recorded two goals. Another newcomer, Sachiko Gamo, has recorded three points on the season. Goalkeeper Isabel Navas Rodriguez opened the season with back-to-back OVC Goalkeeper of the week awards, and picked up her third on Tuesday, the league announced. The senior from Madrid, Spain has made thirty-eight saves in eight games played on the year. 

What's next: The Leathernecks will continue OVC play next week, hosting Southern Indiana on Thursday before traveling to Tennessee Tech on Sunday.