Macomb, IL — The Western Illinois men's soccer team returns to action Tuesday night, traveling to IU Indianapolis for a 6 p.m. matchup at Carroll Stadium.
The Leathernecks enter the contest looking to respond after a 1-0 setback against Omaha on Thursday. Western Illinois created several opportunities throughout the match, including three shots on target from Xavier Gagnon during the final eight minutes, but was unable to find the equalizer.
Harvey Bolland helped keep Western Illinois within striking distance throughout the second half, making several saves to keep the deficit at one. The Leathernecks continued to pressure Omaha's defense late, but the Mavericks held on for the victory.
"Really proud of the effort today," said Western Illinois head coach Kooten Johnson. "Credit to Omaha, they are a very dangerous team in the attack. We got some very good minutes from guys off the bench and created enough chances but were unfortunate to not find the back of the net."
Western Illinois will look to carry that offensive pressure into Tuesday's matchup. Diego Porras, Ty Duax, Ryan Wrobleski and Gagnon have all created opportunities in recent matches, while Andrea Morra, Maksim Palisak and Isaiah Lamark also provided chances during Thursday's late push.
IU Indianapolis enters Tuesday's contest at 3-4 on the season and will be looking to respond after a 5-1 loss to Northern Kentucky on Saturday. Despite the result, the Jaguars finished with a 23-13 advantage in shots and earned 14 corner kicks.
Freshman Tom Henry Berry scored IU Indianapolis' lone goal against Northern Kentucky, recording his first collegiate goal in his first collegiate appearance. Freshman Micah Eldridge also provided an offensive spark with four shots, all on target.
The Jaguars have shown an ability to generate chances, and Western Illinois will look to limit those opportunities while creating its own chances on the attacking end.
Tuesday's matchup marks the Leathernecks' return to action on the road as they look to get back into the win column and continue building momentum heading into the remainder of the season.
FOLLOW THE LEATHERNECKS
For all the latest information on Leatherneck men's soccer, visit GoLeathernecks.com. Fans can also follow Western Illinois men's soccer on X, Instagram and Facebook.
