Southern Illinois University’s soccer squad turned heads on August 30, 2026, when it routed Alabama A&M Bulldogs 8‑0 at the Lew Hartzog Track and Field Complex in Carbondale, Illinois.
Warner’s Hat Trick Sets New Benchmark
Forward Penny Warner struck three consecutive goals, a natural hat trick, that propelled the team to a 6‑0 lead by halftime and cemented the highest single‑game goal total in Saluki history.
The onslaught began early, with Dana Nadda opening the scoring in the fourth minute, followed by Celina Pinelli’s strike in the 13th, and Victoria Hassan’s finish at the half‑hour mark. Assists from Nao Katamoto and Kayla Grain highlighted a fluid attacking rhythm.
Warner added two more goals after the break, while Londyn Soto and Aylie Haycock contributed assists that spread the scoring load. By the end of the first half the scoreboard read 6‑0, a testament to the team’s dominance.
Alabama A&M managed a solitary consolation goal in the 87th minute, but the damage had already been done, leaving the Bulldogs at 1‑2 and the Salukis improving to 2‑2 on the season.
Looking Ahead
The Bulldogs will next test themselves against Lindenwood on Thursday, September 3, at 6 p.m. in Carbondale, hoping to rebound from a challenging start.