Villanova, Pa.-  The Villanova Wildcats have advanced to the BIG EAST Tournament semifinals for the first time since 2004 after defeated DePaul on Sunday afternoon 1-0 in a first round matchup.

The #4 seed Wildcats hosted the #5 Blue Demons for their first home playoff game since 2012; this also was the first time since 2014 that Villanova had qualified for the conference tournament. 

DePaul came out strong getting a shot off in the opening minute that was saved by Rebecca Gartner.  The keeper finished the five saves on the day and registered for 5^th shutout of the season. 

Allison Breed had a strong shot on goal in the 23^rd minute that was punched away by DePaul keeper Mollie Erikson to keep the game scoreless.  But it would be Shannon Casey just seven minutes later who would head the game winner.  The play started on a free kick just over midfield that was played in by Kristin Barbour. 

The ball found Brice McInroy who was able to head the ball down and in front of the feet of Chloe O'Neill.  The sophomore was able to use one quick touch to get the ball right to Casey who was just a couple yards out and was able to get a header to shoot into the opposite corner of the goal. 

The Blue Demons had two more shots on goal before the half, but the score remained 1-0.

In the second half DePaul got off four shots and placed two on goal but Gartner saved both to make the final 1-0. 

Villanova will now travel to Creighton University to take on the #1 seeded Xavier Musketeers.  Kickoff is scheduled for 6:00 P.M. ET and can be seen on BEDN.