MACOMB, Ill. – Western Illinois men's soccer dropped a 1-0 decision to Incarnate Word on Sunday, as a second-half goal proved to be the difference at John MacKenzie Alumni Field.
The Leathernecks created several scoring opportunities in the opening half, putting pressure on UIW goalkeeper Victor Salmeron. Xavier Gagnon recorded a shot on target in the fifth minute, followed by attempts from Ryan Wrobleski and Marco Presta. Western Illinois came close to taking the lead in the 29th minute when Ty Duax struck the crossbar.
Western Illinois continued to look for the opening goal, but both teams went into halftime scoreless.
UIW broke through in the 57th minute when Diego Robles scored off an assist from Andres Riera to give the Cardinals a 1-0 lead.
The Leathernecks looked to respond throughout the second half, with Fabrizio Kasperiski, George Frost, Nathan Bessinger and Gagnon each recording attempts. Western Illinois continued to apply pressure late in the match, earning a corner kick in the 86th minute before Fernando Adrados Castro forced another save from Salmeron in the 85th minute.
Despite the late push, the Leathernecks were unable to find the equalizer as UIW held on for the 1-0 victory.
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