Staff report
Lexington, Kentucky – October 4, 2023
The Indiana University men’s soccer team battled Kentucky in a match that ultimately resulted in a 1-1 draw on Tuesday night in Lexington.
Despite being on the road, Indiana (3-3-4, 0-1-2 B1G) led the match in shots with a 14-10 advantage. The Hoosiers attacked the Kentucky goal, registering six shots on target and earning ten corner kicks throughout the game.
The action began with a breakthrough by senior forward Karsen Henderlong, who found the back of the net in the 12th minute with a precise strike. However, the game took a turn as senior goalkeeper JT Harms saved a penalty in the 25th minute. Kentucky (3-6-0, 0-3-0 Sun Belt) managed to draw level five minutes later, capitalizing on a scoring opportunity.
Indiana ten shots during the second half compared to Kentucky’s four. Yet, despite their efforts, the Hoosiers were unable to break the deadlock.
Notable moments from the match included:
- In the 12th minute, Henderlong capitalized on a through ball, deftly striking with his left foot to score.
- In the 24th minute, a penalty was awarded to Kentucky, but Harms saved the spot kick, preventing the Wildcats from taking the lead.
- Kentucky equalized in the 30th minute from a restart, with junior defender Eion Martin finding the net.
- In the 72nd minute, IU came close to regaining the lead when a cross spilled in front of junior forward Samuel Sarver, whose shot hit the post.
- In the 85th minute, Kentucky’s Yohannes Mathias was sent off with a second yellow card for a challenge, giving Indiana an opportunity from a free-kick, but the attempt narrowly missed.
- In the final moments of the game, senior defender Jansen Miller had one last chance but headed the ball high.
Indiana’s all-time record against Kentucky now stands at 27-3-5. Henderlong’s goal in the 12th minute marked his first of the season, bringing his career total to 25 goals and 35 goal contributions (goals and assists).
Indiana’s next challenge will be in Big Ten play as they face Penn State on Saturday. The match is scheduled to kick off at noon ET and will be televised on the Big Ten Network.
