PEORIA, Ill. -- The Bradley Braves (5-4-6, 1-4-1) are looking to enhance their playoff chances with a crucial victory as they travel to Evansville, IN, to take on the Purple Aces (3-8-3, 1-4-1). With both teams striving to stay in the playoff race, a win is essential to keep the Braves' aspirations alive.
Friday Game Information
Bradley Braves (5-4-6) at Evansville Purple Aces (3-8-3)
Date & Time: Friday, October 27, 2023 • 7 p.m.
Location: Arad McCutchan Stadium (Evansville, IN)
Live Coverage: No Video |
Live Stats
UIC Recap
The Braves tallied their fifth draw at Shea Stadium of the 2023 season, battling to a 1-1 tie with UIC on Sunday.
Claudel Ngongang, making his first appearance since Sept. 23, marked his return to the starting lineup with his second goal of the season.
Bradley Notes
Keeping the momentum going: Following their 2-1 victory over Drake on the road and a crucial draw against a top Missouri Valley Conference team, the Braves are determined to maintain their positive momentum. Their sights are set on securing a place in the MVC tournament, motivating them to keep their winning spirit.
Crucial Comebacks: In a make-or-break moment, several players are returning from injuries late in the season to influence the team's outcomes.
Pepe Mellado made a stunning return, scoring a freekick goal against Drake 25 minutes after recovering from injury. Likewise,
Claudel Ngongang swiftly resumed his scoring form, finding the net within 15 minutes of his comeback against UIC.
Evansville Notes
Previewing the Purple Aces: Evansville averages 1.5 goals per game as they have scored 21 goals in 14 games this season. Kai Phillip leads the team with eight goals and one assist. On the defensive side, the Purple Aces have allowed 27 goals during the regular season.
Eager for a win: The Purple Aces are on a quest for their first victory in over a month, aiming to break their winless streak. Evansville's last triumph was on September 23 against NIU, securing a 2-0 victory. However, since then, they faced setbacks against Bowling Green, Indiana, UIC and Missouri State. They also drew against Western Michigan.
SERIES HISTORY
Bradley soccer's record vs. Evansville is 18-7-4.
-The first-ever meeting came in 1994 when Evansville won a 4-1 match in Evansville, IN.
-The last meeting was in 2022, and the game ended with a 0-0 draw at McCutchan Stadium.
-The last time Bradley won a game at Evansville was in 2019, and the Braves got away with a 1-0 victory.
Kick-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. The game will not be streamed via video.
