MACOMB, Ill. – Western Illinois women's soccer fell 1-0 to Morehead State on Sunday afternoon after a second-half goal proved to be the difference at John MacKenzie Alumni Field.
The Leathernecks created several opportunities throughout the match, with Claire Brown putting multiple shots on target in the first half. Sammy Hunt and Sachiko Gamo also recorded first-half attempts as Western Illinois looked to break through.
Goalkeeper Mahee-Lee Caron kept the Leathernecks in the game with several key saves, including multiple stops in the opening half and additional saves after the break to keep Morehead State off the scoreboard.
Western Illinois had a prime opportunity to take the lead in the 64th minute after a penalty kick was awarded. Rita Moran stepped up to take the attempt, but Morehead State goalkeeper Amira Hendrick made the save to keep the match scoreless. Morehead State was also shown a red card during the sequence.
Despite the missed opportunity, the Leathernecks continued to push forward. Simone Thorst, Ashton Conkling and Nelly Beliveau each recorded second-half shots, but Hendrick came up with key saves to preserve the shutout.
Morehead State broke the deadlock in the 76th minute when Jade Walton found the back of the net off an assist from Ava Peck. Western Illinois continued to search for an equalizer in the closing minutes, but the Eagles held on for the 1-0 victory.
Follow the Leathernecks: For the latest news, schedules and updates on Western Illinois women's soccer, visit GoLeathernecks.com and follow @WIUAthletics on social media.
