West Central Reporter

The Western Illinois University Leathernecks women's soccer team is set to play two upcoming away matches, facing Green Bay on September 4 at 5:00 p.m. in Green Bay, Wisconsin, and Purdue on September 7 at noon in West Lafayette, Indiana.

After five games this season, the Leathernecks hold a record of one win and four losses. Their sole victory came in the opening match against St. Ambrose with a score of 2–0. The following four games were all losses on the road against Drake (0–5), Northern Iowa (0–4), Illinois State (0–5), and Indiana State (0–3). The team aims to recapture their early success as they continue their non-conference schedule.

A key issue for the Leathernecks has been conceding goals early in matches. In their first five games, they allowed 14 out of 17 total goals in the first half. Against Indiana State, three goals were conceded within the first 15 minutes; however, goalkeeper Ariel Bernard helped keep the Sycamores scoreless for the remaining 75 minutes by making ten saves. Similarly, after allowing four first-half goals to Northern Iowa, the defense held firm in the second half.

Offensively, Turner leads Western Illinois with both of the team's goals so far this season, scored during their win over St. Ambrose. Daoudi and McMurtrey have also contributed by challenging opposing defenses regularly. On defense, Gularte has played a central role as an anchor. Bernard earned her first career shutout against St. Ambrose and made ten saves in her most recent game.

Green Bay enters Thursday's matchup without a win this season at 0-3-1 but has managed to create scoring opportunities while struggling defensively. This gives Western Illinois a chance to capitalize if they can maintain defensive stability and convert chances into goals.

Purdue presents another challenge as a Big Ten opponent with a current record of 2-3-1. Known for size, depth, and speed across its roster, Purdue will test Western Illinois' ability to defend strongly and generate attacking opportunities based on experience gained from earlier matches.

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