MACOMB, Ill. – The Western Illinois men's soccer team earned a 2-1 victory over Southern Indiana on Sunday, as Xavier Gagnon scored twice to lead the Leathernecks to a comeback win.
Southern Indiana opened the scoring in the 15th minute when Christian Rotundo found the back of the net off an assist from Edin Cvorovic, giving the Screaming Eagles an early 1-0 advantage.
Western Illinois continued to create opportunities offensively, with Bruce Harris, Nathan Bessinger and George Frost each testing the Southern Indiana defense. The Leathernecks eventually found the equalizer in the 37th minute when Gagnon scored off an assist from Ryan Wrobleski, evening the match at 1-1.
The Leathernecks carried that momentum into the second half and took the lead in the 62nd minute. Gagnon found the back of the net for the second time, finishing a play assisted by Jokubas Samsonas and George Frost to give Western Illinois a 2-1 advantage.
Western Illinois goalkeeper Drew Heller came up with several important saves down the stretch, including stops on attempts from Southern Indiana to help preserve the Leatherneck lead.
The Leathernecks continued to apply pressure offensively in the closing minutes, while the defense held strong to secure the 2-1 victory.
Western Illinois now turns its attention to the postseason, as the Leathernecks will face Houston Christian next Sunday at 4 p.m. in the first round of the Ohio Valley Conference (OVC) Tournament.
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.
