East Michigan News

Eastern Michigan University's soccer team is preparing for two critical Mid-American Conference (MAC) matches against Bowling Green and Kent State. The games are scheduled for October 24 at Cochrane Field in Bowling Green, Ohio, and October 27 at Scicluna Field in Ypsilanti, Michigan.

The upcoming match against Bowling Green will be broadcast on ESPN+, with live stats available on EMUEagles.com. "Despite a first-half goal from redshirt sophomore Sophia Baumann, Eastern surrendered two second-half goals to fall, 2-1, at Northern Illinois," the university stated about their recent performance.

Head Coach Taylor Clarke is leading the team through his inaugural season after taking over from Scott Hall. Hall retired following a long tenure that included MAC championships in 1999, 2003, and 2013. Under Clarke's guidance, the Eagles began their season with four consecutive wins but have since struggled with a record of 1-5-4 in their last nine matches.

"Eastern started 4-0 for the first time since 1999," noted EMU officials regarding their strong start this season. The team's defense has been notable with six clean sheets so far—more than any other season since 2014.

The stakes are high for these upcoming matches as Eastern aims to qualify for the MAC Tournament. They must win both games to remain competitive in the standings. "For all intents and purposes, Eastern must win at BGSU...and against Kent State...to stay alive in the race to the MAC Tournament," stated EMU Athletics.

Redshirt sophomore Ella Holland has been crucial between the posts this season with a goals-against average of 0.93 and ranking third in saves within the conference. Meanwhile, Olivia Sipsock leads offensively with four goals this year.

As they prepare for these pivotal encounters, Eastern looks to end a series of challenging results against both opponents historically tied or trailing in head-to-head records.