Graeme Orr Head Coach | Southern Illinois University Athletics Website
Graeme Orr Head Coach | Southern Illinois University Athletics Website
The Southern Illinois University women's soccer team secured a 2-0 victory over Valparaiso on Sunday, improving their season record to 6-2-5. Head coach Graeme Orr praised the team's performance, stating, "Fantastic road trip with a really professional performance today. The gusty wind made it really difficult at times for both teams however I thought we sustained great pressure and converted chances when we had the opportunities. When we had to defend, we did as a team and it's a great three points."
Southern Illinois earned its second conference win by scoring in each half of the match. Defender Lucy Horn played a key role in both goals. The first goal was scored in the 26th minute from a corner kick by Ashlyn Henrie, with Horn providing the final touch. In the first half, Southern Illinois took 17 shots and three corner kicks while limiting Valparaiso to four shots.
In the second half, Sierra O'Grady scored her first goal as a Saluki in the 52nd minute, assisted by Horn. The team registered six shots in this period, totaling 23 for the game. Goalkeeper Fabiana Solano achieved her third shutout of the season with four saves.
Horn and Solano have been instrumental for Southern Illinois, each playing 1,170 minutes this season. Six players participated for the full duration of Sunday's match.
The Salukis are set to play again at home against Northern Iowa on Sunday, October 13 at 1 p.m.
For updates on Southern Illinois University women's soccer team news and information, fans can follow them on Twitter @SIU_Soccer, Facebook at Facebook.com/SalukiSoccer or Instagram @SIU_Soccer. Additionally, supporters can download the "Salukis" Mobile App from the App Store or Google Play Store.