McLean County Times

The Illinois Wesleyan University women's soccer team lost 7-2 to Carthage College in its first College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin (CCIW) match on Saturday, October 4, in Kenosha, Wisconsin. With this result, Illinois Wesleyan’s record stands at 5-5-1 overall and 0-1 in conference play. Carthage improves to 6-4-2 overall and remains undefeated in the CCIW at 2-0.

Carthage outshot Illinois Wesleyan with a total of 23 shots compared to the Titans’ 13, including a margin of 15-9 for shots on target. Sophomore goalkeeper Vanessa Gray recorded eight saves for Illinois Wesleyan, one short of her career high.

The game’s opening goal came in the 17th minute after a defensive miscommunication by Illinois Wesleyan allowed Peyton Olinski from Carthage to score off a pass from midfield. Less than three minutes later, Ruby Hillegass set up Jess Beymer for Carthage's second goal.

Illinois Wesleyan nearly scored in the 31st minute when Keira Robinson’s shot was deflected by the Carthage goalkeeper and Taylor Haun’s rebound attempt hit the crossbar. Shortly after, Carthage added another goal following a Titan goal kick to lead 3-0 at halftime.

In the second half, an early foul gave Illinois Wesleyan a free kick close to goal. Junior Ava Mapes converted it four minutes into the half to put the Titans on the scoreboard. Later in the game, Emily Kunzer scored for Illinois Wesleyan off an assist from Alexis Shackelford with less than two minutes left. However, four second-half goals by Carthage secured their victory.

Illinois Wesleyan will continue CCIW play against Wheaton College on Wednesday, October 8. The match is scheduled for 7 p.m. at Joe Bean Stadium in Wheaton.