CHICAGO (Sept. 30, 2023) – The UIC women's soccer team (4-5-2, 3-1 MVC) is preparing to face the defending Missouri Valley Conference champion, Missouri State (7-1-4, 2-0-2 MVC), this Sunday at Flames Field. Sunday's match will be a battle of two of the top programs in the MVC; UIC is currently ranked second in the league standings while Missouri State sits in third place.

LAST TIME OUT
The Flames are currently on a two-match winning streak, having won their last two matches against Murray State (1-0) and Drake (3-1). On both occasions, sophomore midfielder Makenna Maloy (Noblesville, Ind./Noblesville) scored for UIC off corner kick attempts. Additionally, junior midfielder Katelyn Nardulli (Naperville, Ill./Xavier) has had noteworthy performances, scoring one goal over the UIC homestand.

SCOUTING MISSOURI STATE
The Bears are off to their best start in program history and have only one loss in their first 12 games. Missouri State is among the three teams that remain undefeated in conference play, along with Valparaiso and Evansville. In MVC play this season, the Bears have victories over Illinois State and Belmont and two draws against Murray State and Valparaiso.

In their previous match, the Bears battled Valparaiso to a 0-0 tie. Goalkeeper Camielle Day registered three saves, securing her sixth shutout of the season. Day is tied for 10^th nationally for shutouts and holds the top position in the MVC. She also boasts the lowest goals-against average in the conference at .642.

Senior Gracie English leads the conference in game-winning goals this season, with three and ranks 16th nationally in this statistical category.

Last season's match was the first time the Flames and Bears have met on the pitch. Sunday's competition marks the first time the teams will compete at Flames Field.

MATCH INFORMATION
Sunday's matchup against the Bears will kick off at noon at Flames Field. Fans can stream the match on ESPN+ and live stats will be available on the Flames' website.

Fans have the opportunity to enjoy action in the company of their furry companions, as it's "Pups at the Pitch." All dogs in attendance will receive a complimentary UIC-branded bandana and dog treats.

FOLLOW ON SOCIAL
For more information on Flames soccer, fans are encouraged to visit UICFlames.com, or follow the Flames on social media through X (@UIC_WSOC and @UICFlames) and Instagram (@uic_wsoc and @uicflames).