Oct. 20, 2006
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. - No. 17 Purdue (12-4-2, 5-3 Big Ten) lost to the Fighting Illini 2-0 Friday night at the Illinois Soccer Complex. The win improved Illinois' record to 10-6-2 and 6-2 in the Big Ten to give them a one-game lead over the Boilermakers for third place in the conference standings.
Both of Illinois' goals were scored in the second half. The first was posted in the 45th minute by Jacki Santacaterina off assists from Courtney Bell and Mary McDonnell, and the second came in the 86th minute by Ella Masar off an assist from Marti Desjarlais. The Boilermakers remain winless in Champaign against Illinois in four chances.
Purdue was outshot for the match, 23-12, as Boilermaker goalkeeper Lauren Mason recorded a personal best with 11 saves.
The Boilermakers tried to mount an offensive attack throughout the second half, but was denied by the Illini defense almost every time they tried to cut the ball inside the 18-yard box. Illinois goalkeeper Lindsay Carstens was forced to make just three saves.
Jessica Okoroafo led Purdue's offense with four shots with one on goal.
Purdue's defense saved the team from allowing any first-half goals. Mason made six saves, including a handful of diving stabs, and Kristin Hetzel made a team save at the near post off an Illini corner kick.
Kira Bilecky also had a pair of key clearances, heading out a corner and an indirect free kick.
The Boilermaker offense started off hot early and saw some good chances, but could not convert. Purdue took eight shots in the first half, but placed just one on goal.
Both teams launched five corner kicks in the first half. Illinois finished the match with eight corners.
Purdue's next match is Sunday at 1 p.m. CDT at Iowa. The Boilermakers lost to the Hawkeyes last season at home, 2-1, in double overtime.