MACOMB, IL – Western Illinois men's soccer earned a big win on Wednesday night, defeating Bradley 3-2 at home.

The Braves struck first in the 6th minute with a penalty kick, but the Leathernecks responded quickly. Xavier Gagnon led the Leathernecks attack, finding the back of the net twice in the opening half, including a key goal in the 28th minute and another just before halftime to even the match at 2-2.

Western carried that momentum into the second half. In the 51st minute, Liam Gainey scored what proved to be the game-winner, putting the Leathernecks in front for the first time. From there, WIU's defense stood tall, limiting Bradley to justfour shots after halftime.

The Leathernecks put constant pressure on Bradley's back line, recording 19 shots with nine on target, while earning four corner kicks. The Leathernecks outshot Bradley 19-11, including 9-5 on goal. Goalkeeper Micah Ramirez anchored the defense with three second-half saves to preserve the win.

With the victory, Western Illinois improved to 2-3-0 on the year and will use this momentum going into Saturday against Green Bay.