McLean County Times

The Illinois Wesleyan University men's soccer team experienced its first loss of the season on Saturday, October 12, against North Park University. The match was part of the College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin play. North Park University, ranked No. 16, improved their record to 9-1-4 overall and 3-1-1 in conference games. Meanwhile, Illinois Wesleyan University's Titans now stand at 8-1-2 overall and 2-1 in conference play.

During the first half, North Park University scored the opening goal in the 21st minute from a corner kick. They extended their lead with another goal in the 40th minute via a header, making it 2-0 by halftime.

By the end of the first half, North Park had taken 14 shots compared to Illinois Wesleyan's three. The Vikings led with seven shots on goal while IWU had none. Junior goalkeeper Sam Kedzior from Cary Grove made four saves for IWU during this period.

In the second half, Illinois Wesleyan's defense improved by limiting North Park to eight shots. Kedzior added five more saves but could not prevent a shutout defeat as IWU failed to score despite taking eight shots themselves.

Kedzior played all 90 minutes and recorded nine saves in total. Overall, North Park took 12 shots on goal compared to just one by Illinois Wesleyan; they also outshot IWU with a total of 22 attempts against IWU's eleven.

Illinois Wesleyan will next face Augustana College on Wednesday night, October 16, at Neis Field with kickoff scheduled for 7 p.m.