McLean County Times

After a 24-hour delay, the Illinois Wesleyan University men's soccer team secured their first victory of the season against Eureka College on Thursday night at Neis Field. The Titans now hold a record of 1-0-1, while Eureka's record falls to 1-2-0.

The match remained scoreless until the 78th minute when freshman Ben Lyons from Orland Park, Illinois, took a shot that was saved. However, fellow freshman Elsworth McIntosh from Lake in the Hills, Illinois, capitalized on the rebound to score and give the Titans a 1-nil lead.

Eureka's offense intensified in the second half and nearly equalized in the 87th minute. Junior Sam Kedzior from Cary, Illinois, made a crucial save to maintain IWU's lead. With less than 20 seconds remaining, Eureka had another opportunity with a free kick but Kedzior intercepted the cross to secure the win for his team.

In the first half, IWU dominated with six shots compared to Eureka's one. The Titans' defense effectively kept Eureka away from scoring opportunities as they failed to register any shots on target during this period. Senior Logan Tierney from Normal, Illinois, had a close chance but missed an open net with a high ball late in the half.

Overall, IWU outshot Eureka 15-5 and doubled them in shots on goal with a tally of 6-3. Kedzior completed three saves leading to his first shutout of the season.

The Titans are set to play again at Neis Field on Sunday against Blackburn College with kickoff scheduled for 3:30 p.m.