Josée Primeau Head Coach | Western Illinois University Leathernecks Website
Josée Primeau Head Coach | Western Illinois University Leathernecks Website
Western Illinois University secured its first victory of the season against Chicago State on Sunday. The match took place at Gwendolyn Brooks College Prep in Chicago, where junior transfer Sachiko Gamo scored the decisive goal in the 68th minute.
The Leathernecks started strong, registering four shots within the first seven minutes. However, Chicago State responded with three consecutive free kicks that did not result in goals. Elise Bush made the game's first shot on target in the 38th minute, but it was saved by the Cougars' goalkeeper. A potential goal for Western Illinois just before halftime was disallowed as the ball was ruled out of play.
In the second half, Alexis Vasquez and Hana Daoudi each had shots on target but were unable to score. These attempts were part of a total of nine shots by Western Illinois, with four on target.
The breakthrough came when Sachiko Gamo scored Western's first goal of the 2023 season, securing a lead they maintained until the end. The Cougars managed only one shot in response, which was saved by Isabel Navas Rodriguez in the final moments.
Looking ahead, Western Illinois will face Northern Iowa at home on Thursday, August 24 at 4 P.M. As of August 20, Northern Iowa holds a record of 2-0 with victories over St. Thomas and Viterbo.
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