McLean County Times

Illinois Wesleyan University's men's soccer team advanced to the College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin (CCIW) semifinals after a penalty shootout victory over Carroll University. The match, held on November 2 in Waukesha, Wisconsin, ended in a 1-1 draw before the Titans secured a 4-3 win on penalties. This result leaves the Titans with a season record of 9-4-4, while the Pioneers conclude their season at 9-4-5.

The first half was evenly matched, with Illinois Wesleyan taking three corners compared to Carroll's none. However, Carroll managed two shots, neither of which were on target. Junior goalkeeper Sam Kedzior had little to do during his 45 minutes on the field.

Early in the second half, freshman Ben Lyons put Illinois Wesleyan ahead with a long-range shot from midfield. Carroll responded less than ten minutes later with an equalizer. Senior Treyson Bixby nearly regained the lead for the Titans from a corner kick, but Carroll's goalkeeper made a crucial save.

Despite dominating possession and taking several shots in the second half, Carroll could not break the deadlock before full-time. The match remained scoreless through both overtime periods, leading to penalty kicks.

In penalties, senior Devyn Kennedy scored the decisive goal that propelled Illinois Wesleyan into the semifinals. The Titans will now face North Park in Chicago on November 6.