Will Kelson Graduate Assistant | Western Illinois University Leathernecks Website
Will Kelson Graduate Assistant | Western Illinois University Leathernecks Website
AMES, IA - The Leatherneck Women's Soccer team commenced the 2024 season on Thursday night against Big 12 team Iowa State. The Cyclones secured a three-nil victory with two early goals and another in the second half.
Iowa State applied pressure early, with a lobbed through ball in the second minute called offside. In the seventh minute, they earned a corner kick near the corner flag on the near side and converted it into a goal from outside the 18-yard box to make it one-nil.
Three minutes later, another corner was earned after Leatherneck defender Alanna Pennington headed away a cross. This second corner resulted in another goal for Iowa State, making it two-nil.
Throughout the first half, Iowa State continued to press, earning six corners. However, Western's defense held firm heading into halftime. Western had some opportunities as well, including a free kick attempt from Pennington that was saved.
The Cyclones resumed their offensive pressure in the second half, eventually scoring their third goal from about seven yards out. Shortly after, Rachel Balinao suffered an injury due to a challenge from an Iowa State midfielder that resulted in a yellow card.
Despite further attempts by Iowa State in the final 30 minutes, the score remained three-nil until the end of the match. The Leathernecks were out-shot 24-4, with keeper Isabel Navas Rodriguez making seven saves.
Western Illinois will travel back to Iowa on Sunday to face Northern Iowa at noon.
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