THE BASICS

Opponent: #2 Elmhurst University
Date: Wednesday, Nov. 4
Time: 7 p.m.
Location: Langhorst Field, Elmhurst, Ill.
Round: CCIW Tournament Semifinal
Watch: CCIW Network
Live Stats: Elmhurst Live Stats

THE MATCHUP

The Pioneers' postseason run continues Wednesday night as sixth-seeded Carroll travels to Elmhurst for the CCIW Tournament semifinals, with a spot in Saturday's conference championship match on the line.

It will be Carroll's second trip to Langhorst Field in less than two weeks. Elmhurst earned a 2-0 victory in the regular-season meeting on Oct. 24, scoring once in each half while limiting the Pioneers to two total shots and one attempt on goal. Courtney Conlon opened the scoring in the 19th minute before Nora Simon added the second in the 83rd. 

Despite the defeat, Ava Lewandowski and the Carroll defense kept the Pioneers within one for more than 80 minutes. Lewandowski made three saves, while Madison Milhaupt and Gabby Courtois recorded Carroll's two shots in the contest.

Elmhurst comes into the postseason after closing the regular season with a 2-0 win at Carthage. The Bluejays also defeated Carroll, North Park and Wheaton during a strong October finish. 

WHAT TO WATCH

Creating More Going Forward

The clearest adjustment for Carroll comes in the attacking third. The Pioneers were held without a shot in the opening half of the first meeting and finished with only two for the match. Generating earlier possession in dangerous areas and putting more pressure on the Elmhurst back line will be critical if Carroll wants to flip the result. 

Keep It Within Reach

The previous meeting was closer for longer than the final score suggests. Carroll trailed only 1-0 until the 83rd minute, when Simon added Elmhurst's insurance goal. The Pioneers' ability to stay organized defensively and avoid allowing an early second goal could give them an opportunity to change the game with one moment at the other end.

A Second Chance at Langhorst

There won't be much unfamiliarity Wednesday night. Carroll played at Langhorst Field just 11 days earlier, giving the Pioneers recent experience with both the opponent and environment. The difference this time is simple: the winner advances to Saturday's CCIW Tournament championship.