WINFIELD, Kan. — Southwestern College continues its Conference slate on the road this weekend, heading to McPherson Stadium to face the McPherson College Bulldogs in the Moundbuilders' 10th league match of the season. Kickoff is scheduled for Saturday October 18th at Paul Family Field.
The Builders (3-6-3, 3-3-3) are looking to regain momentum after a tough stretch that included a narrow 2-0 loss at Evangel. Despite the recent setbacks, Southwestern has proven resilient, earning points in six of its nine conference matches while posting three shutouts behind standout goalkeeper Hayden Clark.
Clark has been a cornerstone in goal for the Moundbuilders, tallying 70 saves and an .805 save percentage through 12 starts. Her consistency has anchored a defense that has allowed just 1.42 goals per game.
Offensively, Millie Hazzard continues to lead the way for Southwestern with three goals and three assists, while Kaitlyn Walker (three goals, two assists) and Abigail Webb (two goals, one game-winner) have been key contributors in the attacking third. The Builders have outperformed opponents in shooting efficiency, scoring on 15 percent of their attempts this season.
Southwestern has also shown strong discipline and late-game endurance, committing fewer fouls in second halves and maintaining high energy in tight matches, reflected in close draws with Friends, Saint Mary, and Avila.
McPherson (5-5-3, 3-4-1) enters the contest looking to rebound after a 2-1 road loss to Bethel. The Bulldogs have found offensive rhythm at home, outscoring opponents 19-4 in McPherson this season. Alyssa Hill leads the Bulldogs' attack with seven goals and two game-winners, supported by Ayden Jones (three goals, one assist) and Gracie Speltz (two goals, four assists). Defensively, McPherson boasts one of the KCAC's top goalkeeping tandems in Emily Singletary and Elizabeth Scheuerman, combining for eight shutouts and a .857 save percentage.
Southwestern holds a 10-9-3 edge in the all-time series dating back to 2005, including a current five-match winning streak over McPherson. The Moundbuilders have outscored the Bulldogs 15-2 during that stretch, highlighted by a 1-0 victory last season in McPherson and back-to-back 4-0 shutouts in 2022 and 2023.
The matchup will test Southwestern's defensive organization against one of the conference's most productive offenses. The Builders' ability to absorb pressure and capitalize on set pieces could be decisive. With confidence from their historical success in the rivalry and a balanced mix of veteran leadership and emerging talent, Southwestern enters with optimism and focus.
Kickoff from Paul Family Field is set for 1 p.m.
