KALAMAZOO -- Western Michigan picked up its fourth win of the season after shutting out Illinois State, 1-0, at its home opener in front of 287 fans at the WMU Soccer Complex on Sunday afternoon.

Stephanie Skowneski netted her fourth goal of the season in the eighth minute for the game winner. Anina Cicerone played her behind the RedBird back line and she fired a side-footed shot on goal with Aryn Newsome making the initial save but the rebound bounced right to Skowneski. The senior forward calmly dribbled around Newsome and slotted it into the net.

The Broncos (4-4-0) held on for the remaining 89 minutes to earn the shutout and held freshman sensation Rachel Tejada scoreless. Coming into the game Tejada had netted 12 goals in just eight games, including a hat-trick in Friday's win at Eastern Michigan. The Bronco back line was able to contain her along with the rest of the RedBirds.

“I just didn't want to let her turn,” said junior center back Kelsey Baskins about marking Tejada. “As long as she doesn't get to turn she's not as dangerous. She's a really good player but overall we did a good job containing her and Michelle made some huge saves.”

Michelle Watson organized the back line and made six saves on the afternoon to earn her third shutout of the season. In the final minutes Watson also calmly collected several crosses to prevent chances by the dangerous RedBird forwards.

“Michelle played very well,” said head coach Suzie Grech. “She doesn't normally show much emotion and you can't always tell what her demeanor is but today she did a great job organizing her back line. I could hear her calling out from the sideline and she did a great job of commanding her box.

With the non-conference portion of the season in the rearview mirror, the Broncos now prepare to open Mid-American Conference play with a pair of games next weekend. On Friday the Broncos host Ball State at 4 p.m. and then host preseason favorites Toledo on Sunday at 1 p.m.