McPHERSON, Kan. — Southwestern College jumped out to an early lead and held off a late McPherson rally to earn a 2-1 road victory Saturday afternoon at Paul Family Field in Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference action.

The Moundbuilders (4-6-3, 4-3-3) scored twice in the first half and kept their composure through a tense final stretch to secure their tenth conference win of the season. With the result, Southwestern extended its winning streak over McPherson to six straight matches dating back to 2021.

Kaitlyn Walker put the Builders ahead in the 27th minute with a well-placed shot inside the box for her fourth goal of the season. Defender Hanna Culp doubled the advantage just before halftime, finding the back of the net in the 44th minute to give Southwestern a 2-0 lead.

McPherson (5-6-3, 3-5-1) battled back late, getting on the scoreboard in the 89th minute when Taylor Duvall converted a pass from Gracie Speltz to make it 2-1. However, the Moundbuilders' defense held strong in the closing moments to preserve the win.

Goalkeeper Hayden Clark turned in another steady performance between the posts, recording five saves in 90 minutes of play. The Builders outshot the Bulldogs 11-7 overall, including an 8-6 edge in shots on goal, while limiting McPherson to just three first-half attempts.

Culp and Walker led Southwestern offensively with a goal apiece, while Adi Pemberton and Maggie Bielefeld each added two shots on target. The Builders also showed improved efficiency, scoring on nearly one in every five shots attempted.

With the win, Southwestern continues to climb the KCAC standings as they return home for Homecoming Week. The Moundbuilders will look to build on their momentum when they host their next conference matchup against Ottawa University Braves, in Winfield.