MACOMB, Ill. -- Completing a sweep of their Illinois road trip, the University of the Incarnate Word men's soccer team (5-6-2, 4-2-1) shut out Western Illinois (4-8-3, 2-4-1) on the road, 1-0, on Sunday afternoon. Victor Salmeron recorded six saves to secure the Cardinals' first shutout of the season and extend their unbeaten streak to five.
The match was a defensive battle through the first half, with both teams recording just one shot in the opening 15 minutes. The Leathernecks found more opportunities before halftime, finishing the half with six shots, while Incarnate Word managed two from Reagan Gyedu and Evan Kraenzel, both of which were blocked.
Twelve minutes into the second half, Diego Robles recorded the Cardinals' first shot on goal before finding the back of the net in the 57th minute. Assisted by a cross from Andres Riera, Robles scored his ninth goal of the season and fourth game-winner, continuing to lead the conference in both categories.
Salmeron and the Cardinals' defense kept Western Illinois scoreless despite being outshot 14-to-4, including 6-to-2 in shots on goal. Incarnate Word is now 4-0-1 in its last five matches and has more than tripled its conference win total from last season with three games remaining.
The Cardinals return home to host Houston Christian on Sunday, Oct. 25 at 6:30 p.m.
FOLLOW ALONG
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