MACOMB, Ill. – Western Illinois women's soccer returns home Thursday afternoon to face SIUE in Ohio Valley Conference play, looking to bounce back after a 2-0 loss to Southern Indiana on Sunday.

The Leathernecks kept the match scoreless through the first half against the Screaming Eagles, with goalkeeper Mahee-Lee Caron making several key saves to keep Western Illinois in the contest. Southern Indiana broke through in the 59th minute before adding another goal six minutes later to secure the victory.

Western Illinois will look to regroup defensively and find its rhythm in the attacking third against an SIUE squad coming off a 2-1 comeback victory over UT Martin. The Cougars trailed 1-0 at halftime before Claire Nieroda scored twice in the second half, including the game-winning penalty kick in the 83rd minute.

Nieroda enters Thursday's matchup with nine goals on the season, leading the Ohio Valley Conference. SIUE has also gotten strong play from goalkeeper Baylor Lynch, who recorded four saves against UT Martin while helping the Cougars maintain their position atop the conference standings.

SIUE enters the contest with a 5-3-3 overall record and a perfect 3-0 mark in OVC play. Western Illinois will face a challenging test against the conference leaders but will have the advantage of playing at home as it looks to get back on track.

The Leathernecks and Cougars are scheduled to kick off Thursday at 2:30 p.m. in Macomb.

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