McLean County Times

The Illinois Wesleyan University women's soccer team faced a challenging match against North Park University, resulting in a 2-0 defeat on Saturday, October 12. This College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin (CCIW) game saw the Titans' record fall to 3-8-1 overall and 1-2 in conference play. Meanwhile, North Park secured its first league victory, improving to 5-6-1 overall and 1-2-1 in the CCIW.

In the first half, Illinois Wesleyan struggled with only three shots compared to North Park's thirteen. Freshman goalkeeper Grace Kiewiet from Leawood, Kansas, made five saves during this period. A notable defensive moment occurred when junior Sammie Shanks from Bloomington, Illinois prevented an early goal by saving a shot after an initial deflection by Kiewiet.

North Park scored their first goal in the 19th minute following consecutive shots that ended with the ball bouncing off the right post into the net. The Titans managed to avoid further damage before halftime due to offside calls against North Park and effective defensive blocks.

The second half was more balanced with both teams attempting seven shots each. However, a foul by Illinois Wesleyan in the 57th minute gave North Park an opportunity for a free kick which they converted into their second goal of the night.

Illinois Wesleyan ended the match with ten shots, six on target while North Park had twenty shots with eight on target. Both teams made six saves each throughout the contest.

Looking ahead, Illinois Wesleyan will travel to Rock Island, Illinois on Wednesday, October 16 for another conference matchup against Augustana College.