LEAVENWORTH, Kan. — The Southwestern College men's soccer team continued KCAC play Wednesday evening, falling 2-1 to the University of Saint Mary in a competitive road matchup. The result moved the Moundbuilders to 0-4 in conference play.
Saint Mary opened the scoring in the 26th minute on a goal from Rylan Nowak, giving the Spires a 1-0 advantage heading into halftime. Southwestern increased its pressure in the second half, recording eight of its 10 total shots after the break. The Moundbuilders finished with seven shots on goal, matching Saint Mary's total.
Southwestern created one of its strongest chances in the 61st minute when Gunner Uhrig put a shot on frame before another attempt struck the crossbar. Zach Hammar also remained active in the attack, finishing with three shots and two on goal, while Luke Anderson recorded two shots on goal off the bench.
Saint Mary extended its lead in the 80th minute when Mario Santoro scored off an assist from Aaron Jackson. Southwestern continued to push forward and answered in the 85th minute when Bernabe Lopez converted a penalty kick, cutting the deficit to 2-1 and keeping the Moundbuilders within striking distance late.
Lopez finished with two shots on goal and Southwestern's lone goal, while goalkeeper Franco Guazzotti played all 90 minutes and recorded four saves.
The Moundbuilders remain on the road for their next KCAC matchup, traveling to Sterling College on Saturday, Sept. 26. Kickoff is scheduled for 4 p.m.
