CHAMPAIGN, Ill. – Fighting Illini sophomore Arianna Veland netted her second goal of the season on Thursday night, but the Orange and Blue could not overcome the Washington Huskies. Washington tallied two early goals and managed to maintain its advantage despite a late push from the Illini offense. Illinois moves to 1-2-0 on the season, and the Huskies improve to 2-1-0.
"I think there are a lot of things we can take from this game," head coach Janet Rayfield said. "This was a senior-laden Washington team that really moved the ball around and tested our decision-making as defenders and on the ball. I think we've got a lot of film to watch to see where we can be better decision-makers and where we can work together a little bit more; we certainly hope to learn from some of those things before we take on Illinois State on Sunday."
With an experienced starting lineup, the Huskies immediately put the pressure on Thursday evening as senior Kimberly Keever netted her first goal of the night in the fifth minute of play. She followed up with another in the 16th minute to give her team an early lead. The Illini didn't let up, however, as freshman Hope Breslin and junior Patricia George fired early shots for the Orange and Blue.
In the 28th minute, Veland took advantage of a flip throw in from sophomore Alicia Barker, heading it past the Washington keeper. The goal marks the second of Veland's career. Barker has tallied two assists this season.
George added another shot for Illinois in the second half, and despite a late offensive flurry, the Huskies continued to hold off the Illini.
Illinois will begin a seven-game road swing on Sunday, taking on the Illinois State Redbirds in Normal, Illinois. The game is set for 6 p.m.
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