Couch, Benedict Shine as Bears Down Illinois State, 4-1

SPRINGFIELD – With Abby Couch and Kaeli Benedict each contributing a goal and an assist, the Missouri State women’s soccer team dominated visiting Illinois State, 4-1, on Thursday to secure their first victory of the conference season. Grace O’Keefe also tallied two assists to help the Bears (6-1-3, 1-0-1 MVC) remain unbeaten in Valley action. The Bears fell behind early when the Redbirds got on the board on an unassisted goal by Kelsi McLaughlin in the 29th minute. However, the Bears answered less than five minutes later. Off an assist from Couch, Benedict evened the score, 1-1, in the 33rd…