McLean County Times

The Illinois University men's soccer team extended its unbeaten streak with a 2-0 victory over Wheaton College on Wednesday, October 9. This win boosts the Titans' record to 8-0-2 overall and maintains their perfect start in the College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin (CCIW) with a 2-0 record. The Thunder's record now stands at 6-5-1 overall and 2-1 in conference play.

The first half of the match saw limited action until senior Mush Bakridan, assisted by sophomore Joey Rodino, scored in the 37th minute. Bakridan's goal gave Illinois University a 1-nil lead after he successfully placed the ball into the upper right corner of the net following a free kick.

At halftime, the score remained unchanged at 1-0. Wheaton managed six shots compared to five from Illinois University, but it was the Titans who had three shots on goal against Wheaton's one. Junior goalkeeper Sam Kedzior recorded one save during this period.

In the second half, junior Logan Tierney contributed significantly to extending the Titans' lead. In the 85th minute, Tierney deflected a clearance attempt that resulted in a high bounce over Wheaton's keeper before hitting the crossbar. He then followed up by volleying in his own rebound for a crucial insurance goal, bringing the score to 2-0.

Kedzior made two additional key saves towards game’s end to secure Illinois University's victory.

Next up for Illinois University is an away game against North Park University on Saturday, October 12. The match is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. at Holmgren Athletic Complex.