UNI Soccer Falls to Southern Illinois 3-2, Misses MVC Tournament Berth

The University of Northern Iowa soccer team suffered a 3-2 defeat to Southern Illinois today, eliminating them from contention for a top-six finish and a spot in the Missouri Valley Conference (MVC) Tournament.

The Salukis jumped to an early 2-0 lead with goals in the 2nd and 15th minutes from Dana Nadda and McKenna Garrett, respectively. UNI responded quickly, with Olivia Knoefple scoring in the 20th minute, assisted by Macy Smith, and Smith then equalizing seven minutes later with a goal assisted by Denise Camarena and Ella Ubben. However, Southern Illinois secured the win with Nadda’s second goal of the match in the 53rd minute.

Despite finishing with an equal number of shot attempts (14 each), the Panthers were unable to overcome the Salukis. Smith led UNI with four shots, while Knoefple, Caroline Hazen, Kylie Knief, and Allison Flies each recorded two. Goalkeeper Thordis Melsted made three saves. This marks the end of a five-year streak of conference tournament appearances for UNI. You can find more information about UNI Athletics on their official website.

“We left it all on the field today,” said UNI interim head coach Alex Place Thomas. “The scoreboard didn’t go our way, but we battled hard until the final whistle. That’s the kind of heart and effort we can build on.” The Panthers will conclude their season on Thursday, October 30th, against the UIC Flames.