Jacksonville, IL, 9/4/21 – The Westminster College Blue Jays men's soccer team travelled to Jacksonville, IL to take on the Illinois College Blueboys Saturday evening. A tight match throughout the game saw the teams play evenly. The difference was an Illinois College goal in the 57th minute on a half volley off a cross that would eventually see Illinois College victorious 1-0.
The game started slowly for the Jays but they gained momentum in the second half, controlling the possession and creating several scoring chances aided by 6 corner kicks. Despite the pressure being applied by the Blue Jays it was the Blueboys that found the back of the net for the games only goal. Conner Benefield (Wentzville, MO / Timberland) split time in goal with freshman Toby Hughes (Jefferson City, MO / Jefferson City). Benefield made three saves in the first 45 minutes to keep the game scoreless. Hughes made two saves allowing the one goal in the second half.
The Blueboys outshot the Blue Jays 12-10 overall but the teams each had six shots on goal. Westminster did hold the advantage in corner kicks 9-6. The Blue Jays were whistled for 22 fouls compared to the Blueboys 13. Senior midfielder Joe Wilder (Jefferson City, MO / Jefferson City) and Senior defender Barrett Smith (Columbia, Mo. / Rock Bridge) led the Blue Jays attack with three shots each.
Head Coach Adam Galla had this to say about todays match, "We started off a little slow in the first but weathered the storm. We played a lot better in the second half and created some good chances but just could get on the end of one." He added, "It's still early in the year and we'll continue to grow and improve."
The Blue Jays will return home for their next game. The Jays will welcome cross-town neighbor William Woods University to Kent and Judith Mueller Stadium for a 7:00 p.m. kick off on Wednesday September 8th.
