Macomb, IL. – The Western Illinois Leathernecks men's soccer team travels to Edwardsville tonight to take on the SIUE Cougars in a crucial Ohio Valley Conference matchup. Kickoff is set for 6:00 p.m. CT at Bob Guelker Field / Ralph Korte Stadium.

The Leathernecks (3-10-4, 1-3-4 OVC) enter the match sitting sixth in the conference standings, looking to strengthen their bid for a spot in the OVC Tournament. SIUE (4-9-2, 3-3-2 OVC) currently holds the fifth spot and can clinch a tournament berth with a win on Thursday evening.

The Cougars' five-match unbeaten streak came to an end last weekend with a 2-1 loss at Liberty. Thursday's contest marks SIUE's final home match of the regular season.

This matchup marks the 29th all-time meeting between the two programs, a series that dates back to 1972. The teams have met 28 times previously, with Western Illinois holding a slight edge, 15-10-3. Interestingly, more neutral-site games (13) have been played in the series than at either school's home venue. SIUE is 6–3 when hosting the Leathernecks.

Western Illinois will look to build on recent improvements as the team eyes a postseason push. Senior Forward Liam Gainey leads the Leathernecks in scoring with six goals this season, continuing to be a key offensive weapon. Sophomore Defender / Midfielder Benjamin Graham ranks fifth in the OVC in goals scored, with three on the year—two of which have come against conference opponents. On the defensive side, senior goalkeeper Micah Ramirez stands third in the conference in saves, providing consistency and leadership in goal.

With a win, Western Illinois would improve to 4-10-4 overall and 2-3-4 in conference play, keeping its OVC Tournament hopes alive.

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