Boxscore

CHARLESTON, Ill. -- Julie Winkler's early goal stood up until Eastern Illinois tied the match in the 73rd minute, resulting in a 1-1 tie this evening between the University of Evansville and EIU women's soccer teams.  The exhibition match, which featured three 30-minute periods, was the first of the season for both teams.

"We were a little frantic in the first eight minutes, but after that we settled down and our attacking combinations played well in the first and second 30s," said first-year UE coach Krista McKendree.  "We didn't sub in the first 30 minutes, just trying to make sure our starters were on the same page.  Then we started using different combinations and getting a look at different players.  Overall, I was pleased, although we need to sharpen our defensive play all over the field.  That's something we'll emphasize this week in practice."

Winkler's goal from 15 yards straight out came at 11:58 on an assist from Katelyn Smith.  Evansville had a goal disallowed by an offside call in the 42nd minute, leaving the Aces ahead 1-0 until 73:23, when Eastern's Rachel Hamilton scored the equalizer.  The Panthers outshot Evansville 12-8, putting six shots on goal compared to Evansville's three.  Kayla Lambert and Mia Tofano had shots on goal for the Aces, in addition to Winkler's.  Veteran Theresa Bagby played the first two periods in goal, making two saves.  Freshman Stephanie Pitstick played the final 30, and made three saves.  Freshmen field players Kasey Cartwright and Sam Conrad played all 90 minutes for UE.

The Aces play their first home match Saturday in a 6:00 p.m. friendly against defending Sun Belt Conference champion Western Kentucky.