McLean County Times

Illinois State University's soccer team will travel to Valparaiso for a Thursday evening match against the Beacons at Brown Field. The game is scheduled for 7 p.m. and will be broadcast on ESPN+.

This contest marks the 14th meeting between Illinois State and Valparaiso. Illinois State currently leads the series with eight wins, three losses, and two draws. In their last encounter, Illinois State secured a 2-1 victory at Adelaide Street Field in October of the previous season, with sophomores Eve Gricius and Eiley Henderson each scoring their first collegiate goals.

The Redbirds aim to maintain their undefeated record in games played at Valparaiso, Indiana. They are also seeking their first road win over the Beacons since 2019.

Illinois State enters this matchup following a 1-1 draw against Murray State in its Missouri Valley Conference opener. This result marked the team's third consecutive draw, which is the first time in program history that Illinois State has recorded three straight draws.

Redshirt sophomore Madi Valenti made a key save in the 86th minute of the Murray State game to preserve the tie. "This past week, Valenti was awarded MVC Goalkeeper of the Week honors for her heroics against the Racers." Valenti joins Jade Rehberger, Kaya Durkee, and Rylann Law as Redbirds who have received MVC weekly awards this season. She is also the fourth consecutive player from Illinois State to earn this recognition.

Valenti leads all goalkeepers in the Missouri Valley Conference with 47 saves and has made at least three saves in five of Illinois State's last six matches. Over their last seven games, Valenti and her teammates have conceded only two goals.

Valparaiso comes into Thursday’s match after a 5-1 loss to Drake in its own conference opener. The Beacons are coached by John Marovich, who is entering his 18th season leading the team. Marovich holds program records for victories and winning percentage with a career record of 139 wins, 136 losses, and 50 draws.

For more information about tickets and updates related to Illinois State Athletics, fans can visit GoRedbirds.com or use the Illinois State Redbirds App.