Rachel Essner
Staff Writer
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The Murray State soccer team improved their record to 5-3 as they returned to Cutchin Field on Sunday, Sept. 19, to compete against the Southern Illinois University Salukis. 

The Racers were first on the board when freshman defender Morgan Bodker found the back of the net off a ball from senior forward Abby Jones in the 21st minute. The Salukis were quick to respond, tying the score at 1-1 in the 25th minute, and lasting the rest of the half. 

Murray State dominated the second half, starting with a Bodker assist to graduate Rebecca Kubin in the sixth minute. The Racers secured the game in the 35th minute with a goal from sophomore defender Riley Johnson assisted by Kubin, taking the 3-1 win. 

Johnson scored her first career goal, while Bodker counted her second and Kubin recorded her 27th career goal. Meanwhile, Jones furthered her lead on Murray State’s All-Time Assists Leaderboard, counting her 25th career assist. Junior goalkeeper Jenna Villacres tallied seven saves on the night. 

The Racers outshot the Salukis 19-16 with 11 shots on goal from the Racers compared to eight from the Salukis. 

“I want to credit SIU,” said Head Coach Matt Lodge said. “They came in and they made it very tough. I’m always happy to score three goals and get a win at home.”

The Racers will hit the field again on Sunday, Sept. 26, to take on the University of Cincinnati at 1 p.m.