In a GLVC matchup at Kiwanis Stadium on Friday night, the UIS men's soccer team edged Southwest Baptist 1-0, marking their second consecutive Homecoming win against the Bearcats. The victory extends UIS' unbeaten conference run to an impressive 22 games (16-0-6). The win improves UIS to 3-2-1 overall and 3-0-1 in GLVC play, while the Bearcats fall to 2-3-3 overall and 1-2-1 in the conference. UIS has now defeated the Bearcats in their Homecoming match in consecutive seasons.

"Tonight's game was tough," said Head Coach Graham Shaw. "The conditions were challenging, and the opponent made it difficult, but we found a way to win. Now we focus on preparing for Sunday's game against Rockhurst."
Game Summary

• The first half saw limited chances for both teams, with the Prairie Stars unable to register a shot and Southwest Baptist managing five shots but failing to break the deadlock
• Both teams battled for control in a tightly contested midfield, resulting in a goalless first half
• The game's pivotal moment came in the 79th minute when UIS broke through
• Joey Fitzgerald capitalized on a one-on-one with SBU's goalkeeper, tapping the ball into the net for the game-winner
• Southwest Baptist looked to respond, but UIS goalkeeper Joe Brudnak made four key saves to keep the Bearcats at bay and preserve the clean sheet
• The Prairie Stars' defense stood firm, despite a late surge from the visitors, who managed five shots in the second half but could not equalize

Stats at a Glance

• UIS Goal: Fitzgerald (79')
• Assist: Hakki
• Shots: UIS 4 (4 on goal), SBU 10 (4 on goal)
• Saves: UIS 4 (Brudnak), SBU 3 (Iniguez)
• Corner Kicks: UIS 6, SBU 5
• Fouls: UIS 6, SBU 16

Up Next
UIS returns to action on Sunday, Sept. 29, as they host Rockhurst at 2:30 p.m.