Oct. 22, 2004

Box Score

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. - Despite out-shooting the Wildcats 16-4, the 19th-ranked Illini (11-4-2) concluded conference play with a 0-0 tie against Northwestern (9-6-2). Senior forward Tara Hurless led the Orange and Blue with four shots and goalkeeper Leisha Alcia was only forced to make one save on the night.

"It's been the story of the year for us," said head coach Janet Rayfield. "We came out and played great soccer, serving balls into the box and setting up great opportunities, but this is just another instance where we still need to find a way to get a goal."

The Illini dominated the Wildcats in every statistical category firing 16 shots, seven being on goal while NU only managed four shots with one on frame. Illinois also carried an 8-1 advantage in corner kicks, setting up three opportunities in the first overtime.

Although the Illini were hoping for a win, Rayfield is pleased at the level of play her team is displaying on the field heading into the postseason.

"Right now, we are playing some of our best soccer," Rayfield commented. "The defense is playing strong and our frontrunners are setting up some great opportunities. We're not worried about scoring a lot of goals; We just need to get that first one and then we will take it from there."

Up Next: The Illini will host their last home game of the season Wednesday, October 27 with a nonconference matchup against St. Louis at 7 p.m.