WINFIELD, Kan. — Southwestern College returns to Richard L. Jantz Stadium on Wednesday, October 8, looking to build on its strong run of conference form as the Moundbuilders host Avila University in a pivotal Conference women's soccer matchup. Kickoff is scheduled for 5 p.m.
Southwestern (3–4–2, 3–1–2) has won three of its last five and remains unbeaten at home in conference play. The Builders will aim to continue that trend against an Avila side (4–3–3, 2–0–3) that has shown attacking firepower but struggled to keep goals out.
After a challenging nonconference start, Southwestern has hit its stride in league action, recording shutout victories over York (1–0), Sterling (5–0) and Bethel (1–0). Defensively, the Builders have been outstanding, allowing just five goals across six conference matches and posting three clean sheets behind the steady goalkeeping of Hayden Clark, who owns a .846 save percentage and 1.33 goals-against average.
Offensively, the attack has come alive in recent weeks. Kaitlyn Walker leads Southwestern with three goals and eight points, while Millie Hazzard has emerged as a key playmaker with a team-best three assists and two goals. Shaylona Rollings and Abigail Webb have also provided timely goals, both netting game-winners this season. Southwestern is averaging 1.11 goals per game on 57 total shots, converting at a .175 clip, a notable edge over their opponents' .089 shooting percentage.
Avila enters the match unbeaten in conference play but has leaned heavily on its attacking core. The Eagles have scored 23 goals in 10 matches, led by Annika Holtorf (3 goals, 4 assists), Lydia Mannino (4 goals), and Nikki Wood (3 goals, 2 assists). Their efficient front line has produced a .198 shot percentage and has tallied 72 shots on goal. Defensively, however, the Eagles have been porous, allowing 30 goals for a 3.00 goals-against average, including nine conceded in their last two outings. Goalkeeper Mia Kristensen leads the team with a .804 save percentage, but the Avila back line has been under consistent pressure throughout the season.
The all-time series between Southwestern and Avila has been evenly matched, with a 2–2–3 record since 2018. The Builders hold a 1–0–2 advantage at home, including a decisive 4–0 win in 2023 at Richard L. Jantz Stadium. Avila edged the most recent meeting, 1–0, last October in Kansas City. Southwestern's last home match against the Eagles showcased its potential, with four different players scoring and the Builders controlling possession throughout.
With their strong defensive form and home-field advantage, the Moundbuilders are poised to make a statement as they chase their fourth conference win. A victory over Avila would keep Southwestern firmly in the top half of the KCAC standings heading into the heart of October.
