WINFIELD, Kan. — Southwestern College put together a strong performance Saturday night, earning a 2-0 shutout victory over Bethel College at Richard L. Jantz Stadium. The win moved the Moundbuilders to 2-4 in KCAC play and 2-8 overall, while Bethel fell to 0-4-1 in conference action.
Southwestern came out creating opportunities early in the match. Adrian Gimenez nearly opened the scoring when his shot hit the post in the 19th minute, while Christian Banda followed with another strong chance that forced a save from Bethel goalkeeper Diego Medina.
The Moundbuilders broke through in the 26th minute when Denis Martinez found the back of the net off an assist from Cooper Bates, giving Southwestern a 1-0 advantage.
Southwestern carried the lead into halftime behind a solid defensive effort. Franco Guazzotti was steady in goal and made several key saves to help keep the Threshers off the scoreboard.
The Moundbuilders stayed composed in the second half as Bethel continued to push forward. Southwestern's defense held firm before adding an important insurance goal in the 70th minute.
No. 10 Francesso Rocchelli finished a chance created by Bernabe Lopez, extending Southwestern's lead to 2-0 and giving the Builders some breathing room.
From there, Southwestern closed out the match with another strong defensive stretch. Guazzotti finished with four saves and secured the clean sheet, while the Moundbuilder back line kept Bethel scoreless for all 90 minutes.
Southwestern finished with seven shots on goal and received contributions throughout the lineup. Martinez and Rocchelli provided the goals, while Bates and Lopez each recorded an assist.
The 2-0 result gave the Moundbuilders their second KCAC victory of the season and a strong performance in front of the home crowd.
Southwestern will return to action Wednesday, Oct. 7, when the Moundbuilders travel to take on Avila University (Mo.). Kickoff is scheduled for 2:30 p.m.
