McLean County Times

The Illinois Wesleyan University women's soccer team secured a 3-1 victory over Elmhurst University on Saturday, October 18, during Senior Day at Neis Field in Bloomington. The win marks the Titans' second consecutive triumph and brings their overall record to 7-6-2, with a conference record of 2-2-1. Elmhurst's record falls to 9-5-2 overall and 1-4-1 in the College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin.

Before the match began, Illinois Wesleyan recognized its four seniors: Bree Cordray, Kayley Carew, Maya Flemming, and Jenna Gravitt.

Sophomore Liza Wiley initiated the scoring opportunity early in the game by intercepting the ball in the offensive zone. She passed to junior Ava Mapes, who quickly connected with junior Sophie Lampert. Lampert then scored in the seventh minute to give Illinois Wesleyan a 1-0 lead.

In the closing moments of the first half, Kayley Carew attempted to extend the lead after a throw-in but her shot was saved by Elmhurst's goalkeeper.

The Titans increased their advantage in the second half when Maya Flemming played a ball downfield to Ava Mapes. Mapes passed to senior Jenna Gravitt, who assisted sophomore Taylor Haun for a goal that made it 2-0 in the 53rd minute.

Elmhurst responded later in the match by capitalizing on an own goal from Illinois Wesleyan. The Bluejays managed to score again in the 80th minute but were unable to close the gap further as their final attempt was blocked with less than a minute remaining.

Offensively, Haun, Lampert, and Mapes each contributed two points for Illinois Wesleyan. Mapes also recorded a career-high two assists. Sophomore goalkeeper Vanessa Gray played all 90 minutes and made five saves for her sixth win of the season.

Illinois Wesleyan will continue its homestand by hosting North Central College on Wednesday night, October 22. The match is scheduled for a 7 p.m. start at Neis Field.