Grand Rapids, Mich. — Illinois Tech women's soccer came into their first-round NCAA Women's Soccer Championship match against an unfamiliar opponent in Grove City College, hailing from Grove City, Pennsylvania and the President's Athletic Conference champions. The two teams resembled unfamiliar foes in the first half, each team figuring each other out while playing to a scoreless tie at the end of the first half. But a long goal by the Scarlet Hawks' Kelly Hitchcock in the 62nd minute broke the scoreless tie, and proved the only goal the Hawks would need en route to their 1-0 victory over the Wolverines at Calvin University's Zuidema Field.

The Scarlet Hawks improved to 20-1-1 overall, and will take on the host Calvin University Knights (15-4-0), who defeated Penn State Behrend 1-0 in the other first round site match. The Knights have won 12 consecutive matches. Grove City concludes their season with a record of 13-5-2.

The first half began with Illinois Tech showing offensive intent. Eva Narvarte and Hitchcock each tested the Wolverines' goalkeeper, Maddie Mills, early with shots on target. Despite Illinois Tech's efforts to break the deadlock, Mills proved resilient in goal, denying several attempts, including a late strike by Taylor Hernandez.

Illinois Tech maintained pressure through multiple corner kicks and controlled much of the play. Grace Yager's shot in the 22nd minute hit the top woodwork, narrowly missing a scoring opportunity. The half concluded with the score tied at 0-0, setting the stage for a competitive second half.

The second half began with Illinois Tech maintaining pressure on the Wolverines, highlighted by a decisive blast of a goal from Hitchcock at the top of the box in the 62nd minute, assisted by Yager. This breakthrough gave Illinois Tech a 1-0 lead, and they continued to control the tempo with multiple attacking opportunities, including a shot by Kayla Smith saved by Mills.

Illinois Tech's defense effectively managed the Wolverines' advances, with Kayla Hampton making a key save. Illinois Tech continued to apply offensive pressure throughout the half, ensuring no equalizing goal from the visitors. The game ended with Illinois Tech holding a 1-0 advantage, securing the win.

Scarlet Hawk Standouts

Kelly Hitchcock  
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- one goal  
- two shots on goal  
- one game-winning goal  

Grace Yager  
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- one assist  
- three shots  
- 90 minutes played

Kayla Smith  
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- three shots
- two shots on goal 
- 90 minutes played

Kayla Hampton  
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- two saves  
- 90 minutes played  
- shutout  

Wolverines Top Performers  

Maddie Mills  
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- 6 saves  
- 16 shots faced  

Tori Stevenson  
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- 1 shot on goal  

Hannah Plunkard  
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- 1 shot on goal  

Game Notes:
- This was the first-ever meeting between Illinois Tech and the Wolverines in women's soccer.
- Illinois Tech outshot the Wolverines 16-3, and held a 9-2 advantage in shots on goal.

Up Next
Illinois Tech advances to the second round of the Grand Rapids regional, where they will face host Calvin University on Saturday, Nov. 15, at 2 p.m. in Grand Rapids, Michigan.