West Central Reporter

Western Illinois University Women's Soccer team secured their first win of the 2024 season on Sunday, overcoming Southeast Missouri State (SEMO) with a 2-1 victory. The Leathernecks had struggled in their initial matches, losing nine consecutive games while dealing with multiple injuries.

SEMO took an early lead, marking the ninth time this season that the Leathernecks conceded the first goal. Hana Daoudi made her return to the field in the 17th minute after being sidelined since August 29 due to injury.

The Leathernecks equalized in the 27th minute when sophomore defender Ali Matthews scored her first career goal following a corner kick. Alanna Pennington also returned from injury, playing 40 minutes after being out since September 5.

Despite several opportunities for both teams, the score remained tied at halftime. SEMO applied significant pressure at the start of the second half, but Western's defense and freshman goalkeeper Ariel Bernard managed to keep them at bay.

In the 68th minute, Western Illinois capitalized on another corner kick. Kayla Turner delivered a precise ball to Rita Moran, who scored her first career goal with a header, giving WIU its first lead of the season.

The Leatherneck defense held firm for the remainder of the match, securing their first points of the season and moving them to seventh place in the Ohio Valley Conference with a record of 1-9 overall and 1-2 in conference play.

Western Illinois will host SIUE on Thursday and Little Rock on Sunday at John MacKenzie Alumni Field.

For more information on Leatherneck Women's Soccer, visit GoLeathernecks.com or follow them on social media platforms including X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook.