Things did not work out for the NIU soccer team this weekend as the Huskies lost to Illinois State 3-1 down in Normal on Sunday.

The loss to the Redbirds wrapped up the Huskies’ regular-season schedule and gave NIU a final 6-9-1 record (the Huskies were 0-6-0 in the Big Central Soccer Conference).

Coach Willy Roy said that both teams played agressively, and the score was not an indication of his team’s performance.

ISU put the first point on the scoreboard on a goal by Alex Umansky. The Redbird forward scored from seven yards with 13:49 off the clock, with the assist credited to Keith Holmes.

Umansky and Holmes switched roles for the next ‘Bird goal which put ISU up 2-0 nearing the half. Holmes headed the ball in from 10 yards on the assist from Umansky.

The Redbirds wasted no time putting another point on the board as the second half began. Holmes knocked one in the goal with 2:08 off the clock from four yards following a corner kick that deflected off the crossbar.

About eight minutes later, NIU forward Willy Roy Jr. fired in a shot from 23 yards following an assist from team co-captain Jim Pisani. Roy’s goal boosted his season statistics to 18 points—six goals and six assists to lead the Huskies.

Coach Roy gave special recognition to Willy Roy Jr., Jim Pisani and Frank Sparicino for their play in the game despite the loss.

ISU improved its record to 11-5-0 on the season and can expect to see its No. 3 Midwest ranking escalate. Last week the Redbirds received an honorable mention in the nation’s Top 20 soccer poll.

The Huskies will have a week to prepare for the upcoming Big Central Soccer Conference matches down at Southern Illinois-Edwardsville. All schools from the BCSC will compete except Marquette. NIU’s first game will be against Cincinnati, a team the Huskies lost a heart-breaker to only a week ago.