Women’s Soccer Falls to Monmouth in Season Opener

EUREKA, Ill. – The Eureka women's soccer team dropped its 2025 season opener on Friday afternoon, falling 3-0 to Monmouth at McKinzie Field.

Monmouth (1-0-0) came out strong, applying early pressure and breaking through in the 31st minute with a penalty kick goal from Kiersten Medinger. Despite several key saves from junior goalkeeper Naitzy Garcia (Mendota, Ill./Mendota), the Scots continued to build momentum. Natalie Morrow added a goal in the 36th minute, followed by Medinger's second goal of the day, assisted by Molly Shook, in the 44th minute to give Monmouth a 3-0 halftime advantage.

In the second half, the Red Devils (0-1-0) held strong defensively. Sophomore goalkeeper Hannah Jachimiak (Arvada, Colo./Ralston Valley) took over in goal and delivered a strong performance, making three saves to keep Monmouth off the board in the final 45 minutes. The Scots continued to generate chances, but Eureka's defense held firm.

Offensively, the Red Devils were limited, with sophomore midfielder Addison Byers (Flushing, Mich./Flushing) recording the team's only shot on goal. Despite facing consistent pressure, Eureka stayed composed defensively and kept the Scots off the board in the second half.

In the first half, Garcia recorded five saves while facing 12 shots, allowing three goals during Monmouth's early surge. In the second half, Jachimiak made three saves on 10 shots to hold the Scots scoreless.

Up Next

The Red Devils return to McKinzie Field this Sunday for a non-conference matchup against Waldorf. Kickoff is set for 3:00 p.m.