Coming off a tough defeat to Kentucky on Saturday, the Illini (3-1-1) concluded their five-game homestand and now head down south to meet their second SEC competitor in Athens, taking on the Bulldogs (1-2-2). The sole meeting between these schools took place in 2003, also in Athens, where the Illini notched a 2-1 victory.
Both Illinois and UGA performed similarly in their last two games, recording a draw and then a loss. However, Illinois’ squad has a more favorable season to pull from, with four successes buoying them ahead of Thursday. Their opponent, on the other hand, is seeking their second win in five games, their lone victory being a 6-0 blowout late last month against Kennesaw State. Georgia’s ties have been low-scoring (0-0 and 1-1), with their losses higher scoring (3-4 and 0-2). Illinois, with its tight defense and dominant redshirt sophomore goalkeeper Izzy Lee, presents a tough challenge to the Georgia attackers.
Looking at top scorers, Georgia and Illinois appear fairly neck-and-neck; Georgia’s redshirt sophomore midfielder Summer Denigan has three goals, one assist and eight shots (five on target). Illinois junior forward Sarah Foley matches Denigan with three goals, one assist, but 11 shots and five on-target in the same number of appearances.
On both sides of the pitch, the starting keepers are key to success. The Bulldogs’ junior goalkeeper Jordan Brown and Illinois’ Lee, have proven crucial in their teams’ defensive efforts. Brown faced twice as many shots (87) as Lee (41). Despite this disparity in defensive protection, Brown has made 33 saves and only allowed seven goals past her. Lee has made 18 saves and conceded four goals, shaping this face-off to be exciting.
The imbalance in shots faced suggests differences in defensive effectiveness so far. The Illini defensive lineup has been solid, with standouts like senior Angie Galo, who proved essential last game in preventing Kentucky from lengthening their lead. Along with that, senior Ella Karolak and freshman Mia Gildea, combined with a strong bench who are all able to assist anywhere on the field, will be important for an Illini victory.
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The outcome will depend on Illinois’ ability to adapt from its recent loss to Kentucky, with improved control of the midfield creating more quality opportunities for its talented forwards. A Georgia team with a strong keeper will require smart plays and well-timed shots from Illinois. Nailing a victory could build momentum for the Illini to carry them into their next Georgia-based game against the Mercer Bears this weekend.
Fans can watch the Illini take on the Bulldogs this Thursday in Athens, GA, at 5:30 p.m. CST on SECN+.
