Who: Valparaiso & Omaha
Where: Macomb, IL
When: 9/11 & 9/14 5:00 p.m. & 1:00 p.m.
7 Games In
Through its first seven matches, the Leathernecks sit at (1-6-0), having opened with a strong 2–0 win over St. Ambrose, followed by six tough losses, with the most recent being against Purdue on the road.
Saves for Bernard
Ariel Bernard has been a consistent presence for the Leathernecks this season, tallying 44 saves so far this year, recording 10 saves in the past game against Purdue. Bernard was an honorable mention for OVC goalkeeper of the week for her back-to-back impressive performances.
Leathernecks Stars
The Leathernecks on offense have been led by Turner so far this season, as she recorded both goals this year for the Leathernecks against St. Ambrose. Daoudi and McMurtrey have consistently tested opposing defenses, though both missed the last game, so the Leathernecks will look forward to getting them back in the lineup. Gularte has been the anchor of the defense this year. Bernard had her first career shutout to open the season against St. Ambrose and has now recorded back-to-back 10-save games.
Scouting Valparaiso (2-4-1)
Thursday's opponent, Valparaiso, comes to Macomb with a 2–4–1 record. The Beacons have struggled away from home, going winless on the road at 0–3–1, though they enter the week with the confidence of a program that has historically played well against the Leathernecks.
Scouting Omaha (2-3-1)
Sunday brings another test in the form of Omaha, which enters the week at 2–3–2. The Mavericks are coming off a difficult 5–1 defeat against nationally ranked Oklahoma, but showed flashes of quality in that match. Omaha has relied heavily on its defense early this season, and the matchup will provide another challenge for a Western Illinois team searching to convert scoring chances.
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