WINFIELD, Kan. — The Southwestern College men's soccer team continued its winning streak Wednesday night, defeating Evangel University 1-0 in Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference play at Richard L. Jantz Stadium.
The victory improved the Moundbuilders to 5-4 in KCAC play, marking their fourth consecutive win and fourth straight shutout. Evangel fell to 2-5-1 in conference play.
Southwestern wasted little time getting on the scoreboard as Nicola Antiglio found the back of the net just 4 minutes, 40 seconds into the match. The early goal gave the Builders a 1-0 advantage they maintained throughout the remainder of the contest.
Evangel looked to respond quickly, but Southwestern goalkeeper Franco Guazzotti came up with two important saves in the ninth and 10th minutes to keep the Valor off the scoreboard. Evangel continued applying pressure, including an attempt in the 15th minute that struck the crossbar.
The Builders created additional opportunities late in the first half, with Zach Hammar sending a shot wide in the 30th minute before Adrian Gimenez placed an attempt on goal in the 39th minute that was saved by Evangel goalkeeper Valentin Goity.
Southwestern entered halftime holding its 1-0 advantage and continued to rely on its defensive efforts throughout the second half.
Evangel opened the second half with another scoring opportunity, but Guazzotti recorded a save in the 47th minute to preserve the lead.
One of the biggest defensive moments came in the 70th minute when Aidan Wiggs made a crucial defensive save on an attempt from Evangel's David Gonifas, preventing the Valor from finding the equalizer.
Will Jansen added another offensive opportunity for Southwestern in the 73rd minute, putting a shot on goal that was stopped by Goity. Evangel continued to pressure the Builders late in the match, but Guazzotti came through with another save in the 77th minute to help secure the victory.
Evangel finished with nine shots, including five on goal, while Southwestern recorded five shots with three on target. Guazzotti played all 90 minutes, recording four saves, while Wiggs added a defensive save to complete the shutout.
Wednesday's victory continued an impressive stretch for the Moundbuilders, who have now won four consecutive conference matches without allowing a goal. Southwestern's defensive consistency and ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities have played a major role in the team's recent success.
The Moundbuilders will look to extend their winning streak Saturday, Oct. 17, when they host McPherson College in another KCAC matchup. Kickoff is scheduled for 5 p.m. at Richard L. Jantz Stadium in Winfield.
