CHICAGO – DePaul women’s soccer triumphed over UIC in a 1-0 match on Thursday, August 25 in Chicago. The two teams fought hard, but the Blue Demons pulled ahead when Susie Soderstrom scored her first career goal in the 50th minute. DePaul was able to keep the Flames at bay with their relentless defense and the efforts of the goalkeeper Mollie Eriksson.
“It was a hard fought battle and a gritty win for our group against a good UIC team,” said the head coach Michele O’Brien. “We really had to dig deep and fight until the final whistle, and this team showed a lot of character tonight. It was a great goal that was executed perfectly and a collective defensive effort from everyone. We will continue to learn and get better and be ready for Iowa on Sunday.”
Both teams started off strong, but DePaul eventually gained control of the first half pace. Sophomore forward Susie Soderstrom broke through and took a shot at the Flames’ goal in the first few minutes of the game. The teams then continued back and forth for most of the half. UIC put up 10 shots, but Eriksson wouldn’t let one pass, helping the Blue Demons with four saves. The two teams ended the first half scoreless.
UIC took control at the start of the second half, but the Flames were stopped in their tracks Grace Philpotts crossed the ball to Soderstrom in the box. Soderstrom seized the opportunity and scored her first career goal on a header to put the Blue Demons ahead 1-0. DePaul’s defensive unit dug in the rest of the way, negating chances and fending off the Flames’ offensive threats. Eriksson stood strong behind the back line, gathering a pair of second-half saves.
After a lightning delay in the 85th minute, the game was eventually called and the game went final. DePaul improved to 1-1 after a pair of non-conference matchups.
UP NEXT
DePaul will take on the University of Iowa at the Iowa Soccer Complex on Sunday, August 28, at 1 pm CT. The game will be broadcast on BTN+.