WINFIELD, Kan. — Southwestern College wasted little time reestablishing its attacking rhythm Wednesday night, as sophomore Marcos Benavidez marked his first start back from an injury suffered three matches ago with an 8th-minute goal to lift the Builders to a 1-0 win over Avila University at Richard L. Jantz Stadium.

Benavidez made an immediate impact, capitalizing after sustained pressure from Jack Bagley-Etheridge, who forced a turnover near the top of the box. The sophomore forward collected the loose ball and drove a low shot past Avila goalkeeper Johnnathan Fager for the only goal of the match.

Avila opened the second half with its best chance to equalize after being awarded a penalty kick in the 60th minute. Deagen Loomis stepped to the spot but sent his attempt wide of the post, missing a one-on-one opportunity against KJ Masso. The Eagles finished with five shots on goal for the match, with four saves credited to Masso and one defensive stop off the line from freshman Luis Le Moignan in the 59th minute.

The Builders maintained control for much of the second period, generating 21 total shots and eight on target. Fager kept Avila within reach with six saves, while Yahya Zondol added a key goal-line clearance after a powerful strike from Connor Inlow.

The closing minutes were physical, featuring a combined 25 fouls and five yellow cards between the two sides. Southwestern's defense held firm, anchored by Le Moignan, Adrian Gimenez, Carlos Villalba, and Nicola Antiglio, to secure the shutout and improve to 8-4 overall and 5-2 in KCAC play.

The Builders return home to Richard L. Jantz Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 11, at 7:30 p.m., when they host Tabor College.