PEORIA, Ill. - The UIC Flames (7-0-2) and Bradley Braves (2-3-4) played to a scoreless draw on Sunday afternoon at Shea Stadium, with both teams creating chances but unable to find the breakthrough in a physical contest that saw five yellow cards issued.
Despite numerous opportunities for both sides, strong defensive performances and tactical discipline kept the match deadlocked. UIC's Edouard Nys came closest to breaking the deadlock with three shots, including a dangerous attempt in the 8th minute that narrowly missed the target.
The first half saw Bradley's DJ Koulai test the UIC defense early with a shot in the 6th minute that drifted wide left. UIC responded through Nys's effort in the 8th minute, while Rui Reis threatened in the 26th minute with a low drive. The physical nature of the match emerged early, with Bradley's Kevin Mejias receiving a yellow card in the 19th minute for unsporting behavior, followed quickly by UIC's Rui Reis being cautioned for time wasting.
The second half intensity increased as both teams pushed for a winner. UIC's Daniel Zepeda forced a save in the 60th minute, while Bradley's Mitch Coughlon and Ethan Beauman-Ansah both had promising attempts in the final twenty minutes. The match's competitive edge continued with three more yellow cards issued - to Bradley's Nokkvi Hjorvarsson (79th minute), UIC's Preston Huitron (82nd minute), and Jacobo Cruz (84th minute).
Statistically, UIC demonstrated greater offensive prowess, outshooting Bradley 14-11, with seven shots on target compared to Bradley's two. The Flames also held a slight edge in corner kicks (5-4), though Bradley's defensive organization proved effective in neutralizing these opportunities.
Individual performances highlighted the evening's defensive showcase. UIC's Adrian Biaggi anchored the backline with several crucial interventions, while Bradley's defensive unit, led by Luke Knotts, maintained their shape throughout the match. In midfield, Darrell Turcios's presence for UIC and Bradley's Amari Fowlkes provided stability for their respective sides.
The tactical battle showcased both teams' defensive organization, with UIC's possession-based approach meeting Bradley's disciplined counter-attacking strategy. The Flames' technical midfield control, orchestrated by Sota Nakazono, was effectively countered by Bradley's compact defensive structure.
For UIC, the draw maintains their unbeaten record this season, though it marks their second consecutive tie in conference play. Bradley's resilient performance demonstrates their continued improvement, particularly in defensive organization, despite their challenging start to the season.
Multiple substitutions in the final quarter of the match - including Bradley's removal of Mitch Coughlon (80th minute) and UIC's withdrawal of Rui Reis (82nd minute) - reflected both teams' push for a late winner, but the defensive units held firm.
Looking ahead, UIC will host Drake on October 3rd at 8:00 PM, while Bradley travels to face Northern Illinois University on October 4th. Both teams will look to build on their defensive performances while seeking to add offensive efficiency in their upcoming fixtures.