Macomb, Ill- The Western Illinois men's soccer team clinched a berth to the Ohio Valley Conference Tournament this afternoon with a one-nil victory over Houston Christian. With the win, this is the first postseason appearance for the Leathernecks since 2019.  

Western Illinois had 7 shots in the first half against the Huskies with only one shot being on goal. The first half would see two yellow cards as the two sides would play very aggressively throughout the whole match. Micah Ramirez would have one save in the opening 45 minutes of play, with the score being 0-0 at the half.

In the 50th minute,  Xavier Gagnon received a great cross from Gabe Chapa and Gagnon would score on a header to give the Leathernecks the lead. The last 20 minutes of the match would become intense as the Leathernecks were clinging to a one-nil lead trying to qualify for the postseason tournament. Houston Christian would have a couple of late opportunities but the Leatherneck defense would continue to do what they've done all season long at home, not allowing a goal to be scored and holding on for the victory. 

The Leathernecks will now have the week off, preparing for the OVC Tournament in Edwardsville, Ill. WIU will take on the three seed Lindenwood Lions on Sunday in the first round of the tournament. The match is scheduled for 1 p.m.

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