Grinnell Men’s Soccer Falls 3-1 to Illinois College in Conference Match

The Grinnell College men’s soccer team suffered a 3-1 defeat to Illinois College on October 12, 2024, at England Stadium. The Pioneers put up a valiant effort, but Illinois College capitalized on key moments to secure the win, improving their record to 9-3-1, 3-0-0 in conference play, while Grinnell fell to 3-4-5, 1-1-2.

Illinois College got on the scoreboard early with a penalty kick goal by Reed Rogers just 2 minutes into the match. The Pioneers had several opportunities to equalize but were unable to find the net in the first half despite five shots on goal.

In the second half, Illinois College extended their lead to 2-0 with a goal from Tyler Schiltz in the 60th minute, assisted by Toby Ybarra. Grinnell answered back in the 72nd minute when Demi Oni scored his second goal of the season to bring the Pioneers within one.

However, Illinois College sealed the victory with a third goal by Tyler Lunning in the 78th minute. Grinnell managed seven total shots, with six on target, but Illinois College goalkeeper Owen Macias made five saves to keep the Pioneers at bay. Grinnell goalkeeper Jayson Kunkel recorded one save in the match.

Despite holding a slight edge in possession with 53%, Grinnell was unable to overcome Illinois College’s timely strikes.