MACOMB, Ill. — Western Illinois women's soccer returns to John MacKenzie Alumni Field on Sunday as the Leathernecks continue their non-conference schedule against unbeaten Eastern Washington.
Western Illinois enters the matchup looking to build on Thursday's performance at Valparaiso. The Leathernecks continued to compete after conceding two early goals and finished with eight shots.
Nelly Beliveau led the offense with five shots, including two on goal, while Callie McMurtrey, Claire Brown and Abigail Schilling also recorded attempts.
Head coach Henderson was encouraged by the team's response.
"Another step forward. Very proud of the team performance today and the support we had for each other," Henderson said. "By far the best we have competed, we kept the game tight after conceding two early goals, never backed away and managed to have moments in the attacking half that we can build from moving into Sunday's game."
LAST TIME OUT
The Leathernecks faced Valparaiso on Thursday, with the Beacons scoring twice in the opening 13 minutes before adding two second-half goals.
Beliveau accounted for five of Western Illinois' eight shots. Caron played the final 67:50 in goal and made two saves.
"Great to see a lot of the newcomers to the squad perform and compete," Henderson said. "Mahe-Lee Caron was great in goal today, and Abigail Schilling was able to show flashes of what she can do with the ball. Lots of moments to build on."
SCOUTING EASTERN WASHINGTON
Eastern Washington enters Sunday's matchup with a 3-0 record and three consecutive shutouts.
The Eagles most recently earned a 1-0 victory over UIC on Thursday in Chicago. Ella Hyde scored the game's lone goal in the 47th minute, while goalkeeper Payton Hyde made seven saves.
Eastern Washington has yet to allow a goal this season and will conclude its two-match Illinois road trip Sunday in Macomb.
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