Box Score UIS men's soccer faced a Division I opponent on Sunday afternoon, traveling to Macomb to take on Western Illinois. The Prairie Stars stayed within one goal through the opening half before the Leathernecks pulled away for a 4-0 victory at John MacKenzie Alumni Field.

Western took the lead in the 36th minute when Nathan Bessinger scored off assists from Marco Presta and George Frost. UIS goalkeeper Kevin Kardel kept the Prairie Stars within striking distance, making a save on a Western Illinois shot late in the opening half. UIS also created a chance of its own, with Robin Lemke Bergseth putting a shot on goal that was saved by WIU goalkeeper Drew Heller.

The Leathernecks extended their advantage early in the second half when Ty Duax scored in the 56th minute, shortly after UIS was reduced to 10 players following a red card.

Western Illinois added two more goals in the final 10 minutes, with George Frost scoring in the 83rd and 90th minutes to complete the 4-0 final.

Kardel finished with four saves in the match. UIS recorded three shots, with Lemke Bergseth registering the Prairie Stars' lone shot on goal.

The match served as UIS' second contest of the season and its first road test, giving the Prairie Stars an opportunity to compete against a Division I opponent.