EDINBURG, TX. – Western Illinois men's soccer fell 1-0 to UT Rio Grande Valley after a first-half penalty kick proved to be the difference Saturday.
UTRGV broke through in the 22nd minute when Elias Taj converted a penalty kick to give the Vaqueros the lead. Western Illinois goalkeeper Drew Heller made several key saves to keep the Leathernecks within striking distance, including stops on shots from Taj and Sammy Jadid in the first half.
Western looked to respond after halftime, creating several scoring opportunities while increasing its offensive pressure. Jokubas Samsonas, Jack Schwering and Ryan Wrobleski each recorded shots early in the second half as the Leathernecks searched for an equalizer.
Heller continued to keep Western in the match, making additional saves on attempts from Taj and Victor van der Aa. The Leathernecks pushed forward late, with Isaiah Lamark and Maksim Palisak among those looking for the equalizer, but UTRGV goalkeeper Conrad Knight turned away Western's attempts to preserve the shutout.
Despite the late pressure, Western Illinois was unable to find the equalizer, falling 1-0 to the Vaqueros.
Follow the Leathernecks: For the latest news, schedules and updates on Western Illinois men's soccer, visit GoLeathernecks.com and follow @WIULeathernecks on social media.
