McLean County Times

Illinois State University's soccer team recorded a 0-0 draw against Valparaiso on Thursday evening at Brown Field in Valparaiso, Indiana. This result marks the Redbirds' fourth consecutive draw, setting a new program record for consecutive ties.

The match was notable as it represented the first time Illinois State has secured back-to-back draws in conference play. Additionally, three of the last four meetings between Illinois State and Valparaiso have ended without a winner.

Defensively, this game was significant for the Redbirds. It marked their sixth shutout of the season, which is now the most under head coach Raleigh DeRose. Redshirt player Madi Valenti achieved her 10th career shutout during this match, tying Andrea Shaw's (2003-06) total and moving into sixth place all-time in program history for career shutouts.

The Redbirds began the game with early offensive pressure. Freshman Rylann Law forced a save from Valparaiso’s goalkeeper in just the second minute. In the first 20 minutes, Illinois State outshot Valparaiso 3-1. Near halftime, Valparaiso managed a counter-attack opportunity, but Valenti made an important save in the 38th minute to keep the score tied going into halftime. By that point, Illinois State led in shots taken by 7-4.

Illinois State continued to dominate offensively in the second half with a 10-1 advantage in shots during that period and a 9-0 edge over the final 15 minutes. Junior Aniya Seymore and Law both had attempts on target late in the match, but each was stopped by Valparaiso’s goalkeeper. Despite sustained pressure, Illinois State could not convert any opportunities into goals.

In total, Illinois State attempted 17 shots during the contest—the fifth time this season they have recorded at least 16 shots or more.

The Redbirds will return home to Adelaide Street Field for their next match against Southern Illinois on Sunday, September 28th at 1 p.m., which will be available to stream on ESPN+.

"Goredbirds.com and the Illinois State Redbirds App: Your sources for Illinois State tickets, Weisbecker Athletic Fund gifts, multimedia, Redbird merchandise, photos, and more."