Godfrey IL - Zake Cardingo's goal led the Illinois Central College men's soccer team to a thrilling 1-0 win over #8 nationally ranked Lewis and Clark on Tuesday in the Region 24 semifinal match. The victory advances the Cougars to Saturday's Region 24 championship game where they will play at #3 seeded Lincoln Trail in Robinson at 12:00 pm.

Scardingo's goal came in the 28th minute on an assist by Ilias Kafi. Goalkeeper Bendan Valentin protected the net with 12 overall saves.

"Proud of our boys today," first year head coach Tacuma Sadlow said. "Each player fought hard for each other and showed true character to earn the victory."

Lewis & Clark (11-3-2) was the #1 seed in the tournament and had soundly defeated ICC last week and twice this season, but an overall strong team effort by ICC turned the tables at Glazebrook Park.

ICC will now play #3 seed Lincoln Trail (4-7-4), who defeated #2 seed Southwestern Illinois 2-0 on Tuesday. The Statesman have won both meetings against ICC this season by scores of 2-1 and 4-1.

The Cougars have been in the Region Championship game three of the last four seasons and will be seeking their second consecutive Region 24 title on Saturday.

WHAT'S NEXT FOR THE COUGARS
Region 24 Championship
Saturday, October 31
12:00 PM vs. Lincoln Trail
Robinson, IL