EVANSVILLE, Ind – The Purple Aces will host the Southern Illinois Salukis for both team's first game of MVC play on Saturday. Kickoff is set for 6 PM.
Last Time Out
Evansville fell to 2-2-1 after a 3-1 loss to Middle Tennessee last Thursday. The Blue Raiders struck quickly with a goal in the third minute, but the Purple Aces responded two minutes later with a goal from Brooklyn Robinson off an assist from Taylor Johnson. With the score tied 1-1, both defenses bolstered and only allowed a total of five shots in the rest of the opening half.
In the second half both teams upped the ante. Middle Tennessee registered four shots that were all turned away by Evansville goalkeeper Bri Chirpich who ended the game with a season-high nine saves. Evansville was able to create two opportunities before Middle Tennessee broke the deadlock in the 68th minute. Middle Tennessee added another goal in the 83rd minute to take a 3-1 lead.
Brooklyn Robinson and Taylor Johnson led the Aces with two shots each, while Josie Seehafer, Mia Lancaster, Ella Hamner, and Lily Kytasaari each registered a shot. Overall, the Aces were outshot 14-8 in the contest.
Series History
The overall series record is tied 2-2-2 since their first meeting in the 2020-2021 season. At home the Aces are 2-1 against SIU, but SIU is coming off a 3-1 win in their last matchup. Evansville will look to take the series lead and their first MVC win in Saturday's contest.
Scouting
Southern Illinois posts a 6-2-0 record heading into Saturday's conference clash. The Salukis are coming off a five-game win streak. Both Saluki's losses on the season came on the road against Southeast Missouri State and Auburn. SIU goalkeeper Reagan Miller is coming off MVC Goalkeeper of the Week honors.
Follow Along
Saturday's match will be streamed live on ESPN+. Live stats are available at GoPurpleAces.com.
