East Peoria, Ill. - It was right back to work for coach Gabe Carreno and the ICC men's soccer team (4-3-0), as the Cougars would battle with Region 24 foe Heartland on Saturday afternoon. 

The game looked as if it would be a shutout, with a Jan Buchcik capitalization off a corner kick (assist Jama Ahmed) gave ICC a 1-0 lead at the break. 

Added onto that was a good ball from Yahir Meza that found the net (unassisted) for a 2-0 lead.

Tomas Fontes held things down in goal, keeping the shutout status in tact all the way until there were roughly 20 seconds left, setting the 2-1 final score in favor of ICC. 

HE SAID IT - QUOTE FROM COACH GABE CARRENO
"We have been trying to innovate and recreate ourselves after seeing the first third of the season. We were inconsistent in our play and our mission was to show a new face. A team that defends well and counters with numbers and speed - and that was manifested in a couple of plays and moments. We have been great at capitalizing in set pieces and have the elements to keep scoring off free kicks and corner kicks. I am proud of the resilience and versatility of the group, and they look ready for the next phase of our season."

WHAT'S NEXT FOR THE COUGARS
vs. Lewis & Clark Trailblazers
Saturday, September 16th - 4PM
@ CougarPlex - East Peoria, Ill.