WSOC closes weekend with 3-2 win over Illinois State

Box Score (PDF)

MILWAUKEE - The Marquette University women's soccer team claimed a 3-2 victory against Illinois State on Sunday afternoon at Valley Fields, improving its record to 2-0 on the young season.

Neither team was able to capitalize on opportunities in the first half and the match remained scoreless at the break. But that changed quickly in the opening minute of the second half for Marquette. After just 40 seconds of play, MU senior Kylie Sprecher booted one in off a feed from junior Madison Burrier. Just three minutes later in the 49th minute, ISU's Ashley Santos headed one in to tie the game.

Back and forth they went, and it was freshman Elsi Twombly who broke the tie to put the Golden Eagles back in front in the 59th minute. She now has goals in each of her first two collegiate appearances.

In the 75th minute, senior Elaina Eckert won a foot-race after a beautiful through-ball from Sprecher to put MU up 3-1. But the Redbirds would not go away. Santos struck one in from the top of the box in the 75th minute to put Illinois State within striking distance heading in to the final 15 minutes of play.

Marquette's defense was together throughout, never allowing a corner-kick or many set-pieces for ISU. In the end, Frank Pelaez's squad held on to a 3-2 decision after five goals combined for both teams in the second half.

The Golden Eagles out-shot the Redbirds, 18-8.

The Golden Eagles have three exhibition matches up next before beginning BIG EAST Conference action on March 4 against Creighton. MU's next contest is against Loyola Chicago at Valley Fields on Sunday, Feb. 14 at 1 p.m. Central time.

Keep up with the Marquette University women's soccer program through social media by following on Twitter (@MarquetteWSOC) and Instagram (@MarquetteWSOC) and 'liking' on Facebook (/MarquetteWSOC).