WINFIELD, Kan. — With a postseason berth on the line, the Southwestern College men's soccer team will close out its 2026 regular season Saturday, Oct. 31, against Bethany College at Richard L. Jantz Stadium. Kickoff is scheduled for 3:30 p.m., with the Moundbuilders also celebrating Senior Night.
Southwestern (5-10-2, 5-6-1 KCAC) enters the matchup sitting in seventh place in the Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference standings. With only eight teams qualifying for the KCAC Tournament, the Moundbuilders must secure a victory over Bethany to clinch their spot in the postseason.
The Moundbuilders enter the finale looking to regain momentum after dropping their last two conference matches against Ottawa and Kansas Wesleyan. Prior to those losses, Southwestern put together an impressive stretch, winning four consecutive conference matches against Bethel, Avila, Tabor and Evangel before earning a 1-1 draw against McPherson.
Southwestern has relied on a balanced offensive attack throughout the season, with five different players recording three goals. Adrian Gimenez, Nicola Antiglio, Carlos Banda, Francisco Rocchelli and Bernabe Lopez have been key contributors, while Connor Bates leads the team with five assists.
Defensively, goalkeeper Francesco Guazzotti has played a major role in the team's success, recording 78 saves and five shutouts. Southwestern's defense was particularly impressive during its four-match winning streak, holding each opponent scoreless.
Bethany (4-13, 1-11 KCAC) enters the matchup sitting in 13th place in the conference standings. The Swedes have struggled defensively, allowing 98 goals through 17 matches, an average of 5.76 per game.
Offensively, Bethany has scored 31 goals this season, led by Antonio Robles with seven goals. Richard Livingston has contributed six goals and five assists for a team-high 17 points, while Kisasi Brooks has added four goals.
For Southwestern, Saturday's matchup presents an opportunity to extend its season and return to the KCAC Tournament. A victory would secure a postseason berth and provide momentum heading into conference tournament play.
The Moundbuilders will look to take advantage of their home field and celebrate Senior Night with a crucial conference victory.
