McLean County Times

The Illinois Wesleyan University men's soccer team secured a 2-1 victory over Augustana College on Wednesday, October 15, in a College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin matchup held in Rock Island, Illinois. With this win, Illinois Wesleyan improved its overall record to 9-2-2 and moved to 3-1-0 in conference play, earning eight points. The Titans also maintained their unbeaten record on the road, now standing at 5-0-1.

The Titans opened the scoring in the 11th minute. Junior Joey Rodino initiated an attack down the sideline, but the play resulted in a free kick for Augustana. Senior captain Jerry Smazil and Cassius Sharp regained possession for Illinois Wesleyan and earned a free kick just inside midfield. Senior Kalabi Kamau delivered a cross over the Augustana defense to freshman Hunter Reinberg, who scored the first goal.

Augustana equalized later in the match when Javi Landen set up Toby Dottin, who managed to get past senior goalkeeper Sam Kedzior for the goal.

Illinois Wesleyan responded about 20 minutes later with another set piece. After a foul by Augustana, Kamau took another free kick and found Reinberg, who headed the ball to senior Logan Tierney. Tierney controlled the ball and scored with his left foot.

The remainder of the match saw strong defensive play from Illinois Wesleyan, particularly from Kedzior, who made four saves. The Titans allowed only five shots from Augustana, while their own offense produced 20 shots with 12 on target. Illinois Wesleyan also held an 8-1 advantage in corner kicks.

Illinois Wesleyan will next play at home on Saturday, October 18, against Elmhurst. The match will be preceded by Senior Day celebrations honoring the team's nine seniors.