The combination of a great defensive effort in goal and a strong offensive front by Judson led to the win. Alex Tyton (Elgin, IL) stopped a career-high 12 shots for the win as he collected eight saves in the second half. Judson also took 11 shots with nine on goal.
It did not take long for Judson get erase the 0-0 tie as Aduato Oliveira (Brazil) blasted a shot into the back of the net from 18-yards out to make it 1-0 in the 10th minute of the match. Illinois Tech had their chances in the first half with four shots on goal and eight overall shots.
The chances for Illinois Tech became better in the second half as Judson played one man down due to a red card. With Judson only ahead by one goal, Illinois Tech tried to find the net but could not. Judson manned up, though, and netted two more goals.
In the 74th minute, Judson's Gustavo Oliveira (Brazil) made it 2-0 when he had a break away and found the net from the bottom corner of the box. Illinois Tech made the match tighter in the 80th minute on their lone goal by Andrew Lichaj. The excitement of trying to tie the match at two ended in the 85th minute when Judson's Leonardo Silva netted the third goal for the Eagles for a two-goal advantage, 3-1.
Illinois Tech had their chances in the second half as they outshot Judson, 10-5, and took four corner kicks. Tyton was stellar in goal, though, stopping all eight shots on goal. Overall, Illinois Tech outshot Judson, 18-11, and both teams took eight corner kicks. It was a rough match as 32 fouls were called with five yellows and two red cards.
Judson will now wait to see who they will play in the first round of the NAIA National Tournament on November 22nd. This will be the fifth straight NAIA National Tournament that Judson has participated in.
