The Eastern Illinois men's soccer team (2-10-1, OVC 1-6) secured the victory 2-1 to in-state rival Western Illinois (7-8-1, OVC 2-5) on Sunday afternoon in Macomb. This marks the first OVC victory for the Panthers this season.

The Leatherneck offense wasted no time, as Xavier Gagnon found the back of the net in the first five minutes of the contest. The Panthers responded quickly, answering in the 13' minute to tie the game at one apiece. Sebastian Khoury picked up his first goal of the 2024 season off a cross from freshman Jackson Liley.

Eastern found success once again, capitalizing in the offensive zone in the 25' minute. Jackson Liley picked up his second assist of the game, finding Adam Boykin for his first goal of the season to extend the Panther lead to 2-1 heading into the half.

The Eastern Illinois defense stood tall in the second half, keeping Western Illinois out of the net for the remainder of the match. Chad Smith received the start in goal for the Panthers, recording six saves on seven shots on goal.

EIU finished the contest with four shots on goal on twelve total shots. EIU is back at home at Lakeside Field on Saturday, Oct. 26 taking on Southern Indiana before hosting Lindenwood on Oct. 31.