Despite a career effort from sophomore goalkeeper Michelle Washburn and a strong showing by the Eagles defense, the Morehead State soccer team fell to Illinois by a score of 2-0.The final goal did not come until the game's 86th minute.
"We had a couple of late chances," head coach Warren Lipka said. "It showed our girls didn't quit."
Washburn did not disappoint after earning the starting nod to kick off the 2016 season. The Georgetown, Ky. native notched a career-high 11 saves after recording just 19 over six games as a freshman.
"Each half, we have seen improvement from this team," said Lipka. "We played a senior-laden team in Illinois, and I thought our girls did a great job."
Six of Washburn's 11 saves came in the second half, as did each of the Eagles' three shot attempts. Sophomore midfielder Cara Maher saw one effort fly over the crossbar in the 71st minute, while sophomore forward Dani Wilson ripped two shots that proved high and wide in the match's final eight minutes.
"Illinois is a very athletic and talented team," Lipka said. "I am excited about the future with this group."
The Eagles' next contest will be at Bowling Green on Thursday, Aug. 25 at 7 p.m. ET.
