CARBONDALE, Ill. – Behind a defense that has allowed one goal in three games, Hailey Chambliss found the back of the net twice, and the Missouri State women's soccer team (6-4-2) found itself in the win column, defeating Missouri Valley foe Southern Illinois, 2-0 here Thursday night.
"We knew it would be an uphill battle going for three straight away conference games, but this team was laser focused on the process, from preparation, to play, to recovery and repeat," head coach Kirk Nelson said. "We stayed solid in defense and stepped it up on the attacking side with many contributors. Proud of this team."
The Bears, who improved to 3-0-1 in MVC play, appeared to have the momentum early, with Gracie English and Joey Fosnow both putting shots on goal in the first 22 minutes. After the initial fireworks, the game turned into a defensive struggle heading into the intermission, and opportunities appeared to be at a premium. SIU then looked to be gaining control of the match, holding MSU to one shot in the first 25 minutes of the second half, but the Salukis could not break through.
However, in the 71st minute, MoState broke the draw, and freshman Chambliss found the back of the net for the Bears, registering her first collegiate goal and giving MSU the one-goal advantage. Thirteen minutes later, Chambliss tacked on another goal and gave the Bears a commanding two-goal lead with a little over six minutes to play.
"It felt great to finally find the back of the net," Chambliss said. "Shoutout to Carly Raunig and Grace O'Keefe as well for the assists."
Camielle Day turned back both SIU shots on goal she faced, securing the shutout and registering a second straight road shutout for the Bears. During the club's three-match road swing, MSU outscored its opponents, 5-1, and moving into first-place in The Valley standings.
The Bears return home Sunday for a 1 p.m. showdown against Valparaiso at Betty and Bobby Allison South Stadium. The Beacons are 4-5-2 overall but a perfect 3-0 in league matches. Admission is free for all Missouri State home matches this season.
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