Macomb, IL – Western Illinois women's soccer showed fight on the road Sunday afternoon but came up just short in a 3-2 setback at SIUE in OVC Big South play at Korte Stadium.

The Leathernecks (1-13-0, 0-4-0) twice battled back from deficits, with goals from Abigail Schilling and Claire Brown, but SIUE capitalized on timely finishes to secure the win.

SIUE struck first in the 18th minute before Western answered through Schilling, who buried a shot from 20 yards out off a feed from Simone Thorst in the 30th minute. Less than three minutes later, SIUE regained the advantage and carried a 2-1 lead into halftime.

The Cougars extended their edge in the 60th minute, but Western once again responded. In the 66th minute, Brown converted from close range after Schilling set her up to cut the deficit to 3-2. Despite several strong chances in the second half, the Leathernecks couldn't find an equalizer.

Goalkeeper Ariel Bernard kept Western in the match with seven saves while facing 17 Cougar shots. Defensively, Daniela Gularte, Samantha Claesson, and Perla Rios logged heavy minutes, helping keep the match within reach.

In addition to her goal and assist, Schilling provided a spark in the attack, while Autumn Wilson, Hana Daoudi, and Kayla Turner each registered multiple shot attempts to push the Leathernecks forward.

Western Illinois finished with nine total shots, including five on frame, compared to SIUE's 17 attempts.

The Leathernecks continue conference play next week at home when they host SEMO.