Dr. Jeri Beggs Interim Director of Athletics | Illinois State University Athletics Website
Dr. Jeri Beggs Interim Director of Athletics | Illinois State University Athletics Website
Illinois State soccer team secured a 2-1 victory against Valparaiso at Adelaide Street Field. Freshmen Eiley Henderson and Eve Gricius scored their first collegiate goals, leading the Redbirds to their second comeback win of the season.
Valparaiso initially took the lead in the 14th minute, but Henderson equalized five minutes later with a header, assisted by Erika Wells. Despite multiple opportunities before halftime, the score remained tied at 1-1.
In the second half, Wells again contributed by setting up Gricius for a goal that gave Illinois State the lead. Madi Valenti made a crucial save in the 85th minute to help secure the win. Valenti finished with six saves in total.
Wells became only the second Redbird since 2019 to record two assists in one game, joining Hillary Griffin who achieved this feat during her freshman year against Lindenwood.
The Redbirds matched their season high with 17 shots and had ten on target. This was only the fifth instance since 2022 where they have managed over 15 shots in a game and just the second time since 2021 they have reached double-digit shots on goal.
Illinois State will next face Murray State on Sunday at 1 p.m., with coverage available on ESPN+.
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