Kennedy-King College dropped a 3-1 decision to Illinois Valley Community College on Aug. 21 at Rotary Park, despite a spirited second-half effort and a late goal from forward Yheykert Morales.

Illinois Valley struck twice in the first half, with goals from Jakob Stumm and Fabricio Barron, and added a third in the 57th minute from Nick Venjakob to take a commanding lead.

Kennedy-King responded in the 85th minute when Morales converted a penalty kick to put the Statesmen on the board. Morales led the team with three shots on goal and was a constant threat in the attacking third.

Midfielders Oswaldo Avila, Gerardo Vilagomez, and Lizandro Campos each contributed a shot on goal, while Christopher Castro added two attempts off the bench. Defender Orlando Montoya also registered a shot on target.

Goalkeeper Rakan Al Mokdad made three saves on six shots faced, keeping Kennedy-King within reach throughout the match.

The Statesmen matched Illinois Valley in total shots (11) and earned eight corner kicks, but couldn’t capitalize on their chances. Despite the loss, Kennedy-King showed promise and will look to build on the performance in upcoming matches.