MACOMB, Ill. – The Western Illinois men's soccer team hits the road Sunday to face Lindenwood in an Ohio Valley Conference matchup after earning a convincing 4-1 victory over Eastern Illinois on Thursday. Kickoff is scheduled for 3 p.m. at Steward Field at Hunter Stadium in St. Charles, Missouri, with the match streaming on ESPN+.
Western Illinois (3-6-2, 1-2 OVC) enters Sunday's contest looking to build on its offensive performance against the Panthers. The Leathernecks scored three first-half goals before adding another in the second half to secure the win.
Xavier Gagnon opened the scoring in the 24th minute off an assist from Jack Schwering. Gagnon then assisted George Frost's goal in the 36th minute, before Rashidi Ishibwiami scored the first goal of his Leatherneck career in the 40th minute. Gagnon added his second goal of the afternoon in the 79th minute, finishing another pass from Schwering to seal the victory.
The performance provided a strong response following a 3-1 loss to Southern Indiana on Sunday. Gagnon emphasized the team's focus and preparation throughout the week as key factors in Thursday's result.
"It's great, but I think it's expected," Gagnon said. "We've been working extremely hard this week and staying focused on what we have to do. It's a great feeling to bounce back at home."
The Leathernecks now face a challenge against a Lindenwood squad that moved into sole possession of first place in the OVC standings with a 3-1 victory over UTRGV on Thursday. The Lions (5-2-5, 2-0-2 OVC) scored twice in the opening 26 minutes before adding another goal early in the second half to secure their second conference win.
David Magalhaes opened the scoring in the fourth minute, while Eddy Mwanje doubled the advantage in the 26th minute. Luke Neely added Lindenwood's third goal just three minutes into the second half. The Lions held UTRGV to one goal in the 81st minute to preserve the victory.
Lindenwood's balanced attack and defensive performance will present a test for Western Illinois as the Leathernecks look to carry their offensive momentum into Sunday's matchup.
"We just have to keep the same mentality, work hard, earn our wins, win our individual battles and stay focused on the game," Gagnon said. "I think we can go pretty far this year."
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