The Illinois Springfield men's soccer team fell 2-1 to William Jewell in its GLVC opener and Senior Day match on Sunday at Kiwanis Stadium. The Prairie Stars are now 1-2-1 overall, while the Cardinals improved to 2-2-0. Before kickoff, UIS celebrated its eight seniors.

Game Recap
The opening stages offered little in the way of clear chances, though William Jewell broke through in the 16th minute when Alexis Ibarra slipped a shot past the defense to give the visitors the lead. Both sides rotated heavily due to the heat, and physical play led to a number of yellow cards.

Trailing 1-0 at halftime, UIS conceded again in the 55th minute as the Cardinals doubled their advantage. The Stars continued to press through a scrappy battle that featured more corners, throw-ins, and restarts than clean chances.

In the 74th minute, UIS found its breakthrough when Kye Mackinnon, assisted by Spencer Sundberg, poked home a goal to cut the deficit in half. The Stars pushed forward late, but shots missed narrowly and sustained possession proved difficult as William Jewell held on for the 2-1 result. 

Up Next
UIS returns to Kiwanis Stadium on Friday at 7:30 p.m. for a Homecoming matchup with Quincy before heading to Truman State on Sunday, Sept. 21.