CLAREMORE, Okla. — Late magic from Ashton Medina propelled No. 13 Rogers State men's soccer (13-3-5) to the third round of the NCAA Tournament with a 1-0 victory over No. 17 Cedarville (12-2-7) at Soldier Field on Saturday.

This victory marked the first time the Hillcats advanced to its highest round in program history and secured their first NCAA Tournament win on home soil. RSU improves to 1-0 over CU in series history. 
 
The first half began with Rogers State showing early offensive intent, as Noah Preston-Watkins and Alex Fletcher each attempted shots that narrowly missed the target. Cedarville responded by putting pressure on the Hillcats, but junior goalkeeper Jaxon Kendall remained alert, making two crucial saves against Michael Catanzarite to keep the score level.
 
Rogers State continued to push forward, earning several corner kicks but failing to convert any into goals. Despite a late attempt by Hayden Parker that went over the bar, both teams went into halftime with the score tied at 0-0.
 
The second half started with the Hillcats gaining control, highlighted by a series of early attempts on goal from Tom Dixon and Louis Bassett, both of which were saved by Cedarville goalkeeper Eben Dewhurst. The momentum remained in Rogers State's favor as they continued to press forward.
 
In the 85th minute, Medina (3) found the back of the net following an attempt from Artur Carvalho in the box, giving the Hillcats a late 1-0 lead. Cedarville attempted to respond with a couple of shots, but Kendall stood firm in goal, securing the shutout. The Hillcats maintained their slim advantage, closing out the match with just six seconds remaining outside the box.
 
Kendall recorded four saves for his school-best 11th shutout, playing the full 90 minutes. Medina scored the only goal of the match, which also served as the game-winner. Bassett led the team offensively with five shots, three on target, while Dixon contributed defensively and managed a shot on goal.
 
Cedarville's Dewhurst played a crucial role as well, recording four saves while facing 11 shots and conceding only one goal. Defender Asa Haley contributed with one shot on goal, and forward Michael Catanzarite registered two shots, both on target. Jackson Baker also made his presence felt with one shot on goal.
 
Rogers State will await its opponent in the next round of the tournament, scheduled for Nov. 30 (time TBA) at Soldier Field. They will face either No. 15 Lincoln or Tiffin, who will compete in Jefferson City, Missouri, tomorrow afternoon.