'Necks look to rebound against Panthers

By: William Welt

Posted: 10/8/08

The Western Illinois University men's soccer team will face off against Eastern Illinois at John McKenzie Alumni Field today at 4:30 p.m.

The 'Necks (7-3-1) are coming off a 1-0 home-opening loss to Evansville last Friday. Head coach Dr. Eric Johnson said he hopes his squad can bounce back after the difficult loss.

"These regional games that we play out of conference are critical for our RPI," Johnson said. "We want to end up having a chance to have an at-large bid for the NCAA Tournament."

Western will look to rebound against the Panthers as the 'Necks defend the home field advantage again.

"We want to protect our home games, and I think we're excited to be home," Johnson said. "The field is in great shape, and Eastern has to travel on a weekday instead of us, so that should be to our advantage."

Eastern Illinois (5-4-1) lost to No. 21 Ohio State 3-0 last Sunday. The Panthers faced a serious disadvantage against the Buckeyes by losing a man on the field after being issued a red card.

Eastern has now lost back-to-back games for the first time this season.

Johnson said he still believes his team needs to improve from last Friday's game to defeat the Panthers.

"We know we can spread people out," Johnson said. "We need to find a quicker rhythm in our passing, keep the momentum moving the ball to make the other team move, and find some more shots."

Johnson does not want his team to completely focus on the offensive side of the ball because he believes the strength of his team reside in their defense.

"We just can't throw caution to the wind," Johnson said. "I think the key to our success so far this season is we have been very tight in the back. We don't give up easy goals and we got to stick with that."

One of the leaders on the defense who has played very well this season has been junior goalkeeper Stephen Paterson. Paterson ended last Friday's game with four saves and surrendered one goal that came off a fast break by Evansville.

"He's been having a really good season," Johnson said. "The leadership in the back and making big saves keeps us in games, and that is what he has done. Hopefully he continues to be sharp and be the vocal leader in the back, and coming up supporting the back, and cutting out things before they become dangerous. I expect him to have a great game tomorrow."

The 'Necks will begin the contest at 4:30 p.m. at home.