Macomb, IL — In a tightly contested matchup, Western Illinois came from behind to defeat Bradley University 3-2 

Bradley struck first in the sixth minute when DJ Koulai converted a penalty kick following a close call at the top of the penalty area. It was Koulai's first goal of the season and gave the Braves an early 1-0 lead. As the first half wore on, Western Illinois responded quickly to any Bradley momentum. Xavier Gagnon tied the match in the 28th minute for the Leathernecks.

Mitch Coughlon put Bradley back in front in the 33rd minute with his first goal of the season, giving the Braves a 2-1 advantage. But Gagnon responded again for Western Illinois, leveling the score at 2-2 in the 45th minute with just 30 seconds left before halftime.

Seven minutes into the second half, the Leathernecks took the lead for good. Liam Gainey slipped behind the Bradley defense and finished to make it 3-2, a goal that would ultimately prove to be the game-winner.

Western Illinois outshot Bradley 19-14 and held a 9-6 edge in shots on goal. Each team committed nine fouls. Five players were booked during the match, including Koulai and Olav Crovo for Bradley. Western Illinois received three cautions: one each to August Jacus, Benjamin Graham, and a member of the bench.

Bradley returns to action on Sept. 7, traveling to face Purdue Fort Wayne to wrap up a stretch of four out of five matches on the road to start the season. The Braves will then play two straight at home against Omaha and Millikin.