Macomb, IL – The Western Illinois men's soccer team battled throughout 90 minutes but fell 3-1 to Southern Indiana in Ohio Valley Conference action.
Southern Indiana struck first in the ninth minute when Christian Rotundo scored off an assist from Jimmy Murphy to give the Screaming Eagles an early 1-0 advantage.
Western Illinois responded with several attacking opportunities in the first half. Xavier Gagnon tested Southern Indiana goalkeeper Kael McGowan multiple times, while Adam Reiniger and George Frost each recorded attempts on target. However, McGowan made several saves to keep the Leathernecks off the scoreboard heading into halftime.
Southern Indiana extended its lead in the 55th minute when Nolan Stevens scored off an assist from Virgil Stevens, making it 2-0.
The Leathernecks continued to push forward and found their breakthrough in the 75th minute. Jason Hufnagle scored his goal off assists from Rashidi Ishibwiami and Fabrizio Kasperiski, cutting the deficit to 2-1 and giving Western Illinois renewed momentum.
Western Illinois continued to create chances late in the match, with Ty Duax and Fernando Adrados Castro putting shots on goal. McGowan came up with key saves to preserve the Southern Indiana advantage.
The Screaming Eagles added an insurance goal in the 87th minute when Oliver Church scored off an assist from Ian Graham to secure the 3-1 victory.
Harvey Bolland made several saves in goal for Western Illinois, while the Leathernecks continued to battle offensively throughout the contest.
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