The Eastern men’s soccer team will take on Summit League foe Southern Indiana at Lakeside Field Saturday at 2 p.m. as the Panthers return home for their first time this season.

The Panthers are 1-5-1 through seven games thus far. Their win came against Purdue Fort Wayne back on September 4th. The Panther offense has been lead by junior forward, Sam Eccles, who leads the team in both goals and shots with two, and ten respectively.

Julian Smith, a midfielder who is also a junior, has contributed to the Panther’s efforts by scoring the teams only game winning goal. Smith is also second on the team in shots with seven.

On the defensive side of the ball, goalie Chad Smith is second in the Summit League in saves with 37 through seven games.

Smith also still holds the title for most saves in a game this season with 13 against Dayton back on September 13th. The rest of the defense has been very involved and while their record may not show it, the Panthers have allowed the 5th of 10 in goals allowed as they have allowed 18.

Southern Indiana comes into the contest still searching for their first win of the year. The 0-7-2 Screaming Eagles has scored six times in nine games. On average they only give up two goals per game, but their biggest struggle has been finding the net.

Graduate student Nick Faddis leads the team in scoring with two goals, his last coming against Lindenwood on September 16th.

Both teams figure to be hungry for a victory after slow starts to the season. Forecasts are showing clear skies and comfortable weather so it is sure to be a game that you will not want to miss.

Brian Barrett can be reached at 581-2812 or bjbarrett@eiu.edu