McLean County Times

The Illinois Wesleyan University women's soccer team ended its season after a penalty shootout loss to Wheaton College in the College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin (CCIW) Quarterfinals at Neis Field on Saturday, November 1. The Titans, seeded fourth, finished with a 9-7-3 overall record, their highest win total since 2022.

Sophomore Liza Wiley scored a late goal to tie the match in regulation. "With the Titans' season on life support, the Thunder gave IWU a gift with a free kick 15 yards right of goal with 1:25 remaining. Senior Kayley Carew floated one up towards the box, where Wiley leaped to head the ball into the back of the net, tying the game 1-1." Wiley nearly secured victory for Illinois Wesleyan in the final seconds of regulation, but Wheaton goalkeeper Leah Roe made a crucial save.

Illinois Wesleyan outshot Wheaton 22-7 and led in shots on target by 12-6. The Titans also had more corner kicks but were held off by Roe's 11 saves. "IWU ripped off 22 shots to WC's seven, registering a 12-6 lead in shots on target. The Titans also led in corners, 5-2, but the Thunder keeper used 11 saves to keep Illinois Wesleyan at bay."

Wheaton took an initial lead after Olivia Martin scored following a free kick near midfield. The match remained tied through two overtime periods despite opportunities for both teams.

In penalties, seniors Bree Cordray and Kayley Carew along with sophomore Keira Robinson converted their attempts for Illinois Wesleyan. However, Wheaton advanced by making four penalty kicks to Illinois Wesleyan’s three. "Illinois Wesleyan saw penalties converted by seniors Bree Cordray and Carew along with sophomore Keira Robinson, but Wheaton ultimately came away with four makes to advance to the CCIW Tournament Semifinals."

Saturday's game was also significant as it marked the last collegiate appearance for seniors Cordray, Maya Flemming, Jenna Gravitt, and Carew.

Wheaton will play top-seeded North Central College in the tournament semifinals.