KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Southwestern College men's soccer team secured another Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference victory Wednesday afternoon, defeating Avila University 2-0 on the road. The Moundbuilders improved to 3-4 in conference play, while the Eagles fell to 2-4-1.
After a scoreless first half, Southwestern found its offensive rhythm in the second half, scoring two goals just over two minutes apart to secure the victory.
The Moundbuilders controlled much of the offensive action throughout the first half, creating several scoring opportunities. Luke Anderson nearly put Southwestern ahead in the 23rd minute when his shot struck the crossbar. Bernabe Lopez also applied offensive pressure with multiple shot attempts, but the Builders entered halftime tied 0-0.
Southwestern broke through in the 66th minute when Francesco Rocchelli found the back of the net off an assist from Elias Martinez, giving the Moundbuilders a 1-0 lead.
Just over two minutes later, Zach Hammar delivered a highlight-worthy goal in the 69th minute, firing a powerful strike from the 15-yard mark outside the penalty box into the back of the net. Luke Anderson helped set up the impressive finish, extending Southwestern's lead to 2-0.
The Moundbuilders continued to create scoring opportunities throughout the remainder of the match. Hammar finished with three shots, all on goal, while Lopez led Southwestern with five shot attempts. Christian Banda added three shots, and Nicola Antiglio recorded two, including one on goal.
Defensively, Southwestern delivered a strong performance to preserve the shutout. Goalkeeper Franco Guazzotti played all 90 minutes, recording two saves to keep the Eagles scoreless. Avila managed seven total shots, including two on goal, as the Moundbuilders limited the Eagles' offensive opportunities.
Southwestern finished with a 21-7 advantage in total shots, including 13 attempts in the second half. The Builders also held a 6-3 advantage in corner kicks, maintaining offensive pressure throughout the contest.
Avila goalkeeper Jackson Mayer recorded four saves, while Cameron Habel and Jake Wood each registered a shot on goal for the Eagles.
With the victory, the Moundbuilders earned their third KCAC win of the season and continued to build momentum in conference play.
Southwestern will return to action Saturday, Oct. 10, traveling to Hillsboro, Kan., to face Tabor College in another KCAC matchup. Kickoff is scheduled for 3:30 p.m.
