McLean County Times

Illinois State University's women's soccer team achieved a 1-0 win over Drake University on Thursday afternoon at Adelaide Street Field. The match was decided by senior Jade Rehberger, who scored her first career goal in the 80th minute. This goal also marked her final regular-season appearance at Adelaide Street Field.

The decisive play followed a corner kick opportunity for Illinois State. After sophomore Rylie Monohan’s shot was blocked, Rehberger converted the rebound. Monohan received credit for her first career assist on the play.

Redshirt sophomore goalkeeper Madi Valenti recorded her tenth shutout of the season, tying the program's single-season record for individual shutouts. As a team, Illinois State now has 11 shutouts this season, which matches the second-highest total in school history. Valenti made three saves during the game, including two key stops in the second half.

With this result, Illinois State remains unbeaten at home in conference play for the first time since 2016 and has not lost in its last nine games—a streak that matches its longest since 2019. The Redbirds are now at the top of the Missouri Valley Conference standings with 13 points.

In the opening minutes of Thursday’s match, Illinois State pressed offensively as senior Sammi Cenek forced a save from Drake’s goalkeeper in the seventh minute. Senior Abby Hall also attempted a shot in the 16th minute, but both teams remained scoreless through halftime. Drake outshot Illinois State 5-1 during the first half.

The second half saw both teams exchange scoring opportunities and saves before Rehberger’s late goal broke the deadlock. In response, Drake increased offensive pressure and took four shots in the final ten minutes, but Illinois State’s defense maintained its lead to secure victory.

Fans can access tickets and other information about Illinois State athletics through GoRedbirds.com and via the Illinois State Redbirds App.