Chicago, Ill.— Illinois Tech faced a tough challenge against conference-undefeated Aurora University on Tuesday night at Stuart Field, falling 19–3. Aurora's high-powered offense made its mark with three player-up goals, while Illinois Tech scored in three separate quarters. Toni Martinez scored her 31st goal of the season for the Scarlet Hawks and added an assist, while Ellie Post scored a goal for a second consecutive game.

Illinois Tech's record now stands at 3-10 overall, with a 1-4 mark in conference play. Aurora improved to 7-6, remaining undefeated in conference at 5-0.

How It Happened

The game kicked off with Aurora taking the first draw control, setting up Nicolina Smith's player-up goal at 14:05, assisted by Amelia Bell. The Scarlet Hawks struck back with a goal by Victoria Akirtava at 10:46, courtesy of an assist from Eliza Baron, briefly tying the score. Aurora quickly regained control with Smith adding another goal at 9:53, followed by scores from Ava Courtney and Amelia Bell. Despite a save by Meghan Ginty on a shot from Kelly Hitchcock, Aurora wrapped up the first quarter leading 5–1.

In the second quarter, Aurora's offense rolled on, with Nicolina Smith scoring twice, including a free position shot at 11:41. Ava Courtney added another from a free position at 8:47. Julie Sass and Eva Taute each found the back of the net, rounding out the quarter with Aurora ahead 10–1, despite Illinois Tech's attempts, including a shot by Hitchcock that was saved by Ginty.

Aurora didn't let up in the third quarter, as Nicolina Smith opened with another player-up goal at 13:52, again assisted by Bell. Bell then added her own goal, and despite some turnovers from both teams, Aurora's lead kept growing. Alli Holsey scored at 7:08, and Smith notched another player-up goal with Bell's help. Illinois Tech's Ellie Post put one in the net at 1:12, assisted by Antonia Martinez, ending the quarter at 14–2.

Aurora continued their barrage in the fourth quarter with Ava Courtney scoring at 14:47. Antonia Martinez answered back for Illinois Tech, scoring with help from Eliza Baron at 13:12. However, Aurora kept the pressure on, with Bell and Kara Middleton adding to their tally. Despite Illinois Tech's efforts, including a saved shot by Victoria Akirtava, Aurora secured the win when Julie Sass scored with just under two minutes left, finishing the game at 19–3.

Scarlet Hawk Standouts

Eliza Baron  
- 2 assists  
- 1 shot on goal  

Victoria Akirtava  
- 1 goal  
- 2 shots on goal  

Ellie Post  
- 1 goal  
- 1 shot on goal  

Antonia Martinez  
- 1 goal  
- 1 assist  
- 3 shots  

Aurora Top Performers

Nicolina Smith  
- 6 goals  
- 3 player-up goals  
- 8 shots on goal  

Amelia Bell  
- 4 goals  
- 3 assists  
- 1 game-winning goal  

Ava Courtney  
- 3 goals  
- 1 assist  
- 6 shots on goal  

Game Notes:
- Illinois Tech's record against Aurora is now 4-8, with Aurora winning the last seven matchups.
- The team recorded 3 assists, beating their season average of 2.33 for 2026.
- Eliza Baron excelled defensively with 3 ground balls, above her average of 1.0.
- Victoria Akirtava surpassed her season average with 2 shots on goal, compared to her average of 0.33.

Up Next
Illinois Tech will take on Cornell College on Saturday, April 11 at 1 p.m. in Mount Vernon, Iowa.