The Western Illinois men's and women's cross country teams are set to begin their season by hosting the Western Illinois Alumni Cross Country Invitational. The event will take place at Spring Lake Park, starting with the women's race at 5:15 p.m. on Friday. Last year, the Leatherneck women claimed victory in this event, while the men secured second place behind Bradley.
Western's defense held firm for 81 minutes before Loyola managed to score the first goal of the game. The Ramblers had a strong performance, recording 25 shots with 11 on target. Leatherneck goalie Isabel Navas Rodriguez was tested throughout but made eight saves, allowing only one goal.
Western Illinois University's soccer team is preparing for two road matches against Loyola Chicago and Milwaukee. The Leathernecks will face the Loyola Ramblers on Thursday, August 31 at 7 p.m. CT at Loyola Soccer Park in Chicago, IL. They will then travel to Engelmann Stadium in Milwaukee, WI to play the Milwaukee Panthers on Sunday, September 3 at 1 p.m. CT.
Isabel Navas Rodriguez has been recognized as the Ohio Valley Conference's Goalkeeper of the Week for the second consecutive time. The Western Illinois senior goalkeeper achieved this honor following her performance against Northern Iowa, where she secured a 0-0 draw with six saves, marking her second shutout of the season.