MACOMB, Ill. - Lindenwood men's soccer (1-2-1) earned their first draw of the season as they tied 0-0 against future OVC men's soccer opponent Western Illinois (0-3-1). Defense was key in the match with just seven total shots by both teams combined.

"I thought we did really well defensively," said head coach Kris Bertsch. "That is two shutouts in a row for us, and now we just need to fine tune some of the details to get some more goals."

Defenders Noe Bijou and Luke Neely played all 90 minutes of the match on Tuesday during the draw, helping the Lions keep the Leathernecks off the board. The only shot on goal was by WIU's Jimmy Baars during the second minute of the match, but goalie Enzo Gil made his lone save.

"It is always going to be about the 11 on the field at the time, but I think the back line is getting better and our goalkeeper as a nice presence to him. Collectively we worked very hard, and that's why we have 180 minutes straight without giving up a goal."

Lindenwood managed just two shots on the afternoon with both of them coming in the second half. Midfielder Josh Francombe missed his shot high during the 51st minute from the top of the box. Defender Jermaine Mentoor also had a shot from the top of the box that was too high at the 86th minute.

The Leathernecks had a chance late within the final minute of the match to break the tie after a foul by LU which gave Western a free kick. Liam Gainey (three shots) shot just before the 90th minute, but missed high of the crossbar.

Lions were able to earn four corners compared to just three by the Leathernecks. Western Ill. also had just nine fouls compared to 11 by Lindenwood.

LU will be back at Hunter Stadium on Sunday, Sept. 10 at 1:00 p.m. when they take on Utah Tech for their second home game of the season. The game will be streamed on ESPN+, for more information go to lindenwoodlions.com.