East Michigan News

Eastern Michigan University's soccer team experienced a narrow defeat against Northern Illinois University, losing 2-1 in a match held at the NIU Soccer and Track & Field Complex on Sunday, October 18. The Eagles initially took the lead with a goal from redshirt sophomore Sophia Baumann during the first half.

The scoring for Eastern began when junior Mary Grimes executed a throw-in to junior Hannah Thompson, who struck the ball off the crossbar, allowing Baumann to tap it home. This marked Baumann's second goal of the season.

Northern Illinois countered strongly after halftime, scoring twice in quick succession in the 48th and 57th minutes. The Huskies out-shot Eastern by a margin of 7-2, although both teams managed three corner kicks each.

Following this game, Eastern Michigan's record stands at 5-6-4 overall and 1-3-4 in Mid-American Conference play. Meanwhile, Northern Illinois improved to an 8-4-4 overall record with a conference standing of 2-3-3.

Sophomore Sarah Van Euwen and redshirt sophomore Scarlett Thomas both played the entire match for Eastern Michigan. Senior Sam Lenaghan also completed her first full game of the season. Thompson contributed her third career assist during this match.

Historically, Eastern Michigan maintains an advantage over Northern Illinois with an all-time series lead of 20 wins to eight losses and three draws. Notably, this match featured only eleven combined shots between both teams—the fewest since their encounter on September 25, 2016.

Looking ahead, Eastern Michigan is set to face Bowling Green State University on Thursday, October 24 at 7 p.m.

For ongoing updates about the Eagles' activities and performances, fans are encouraged to visit EMUEagles.com or follow them on social media platforms such as Twitter and Instagram under @EMUSoccer.