WICHITA FALLS, Texas — No. 14 Rogers State Men's Soccer (4-0-2, 0-0-0) and No. 14 St. Mary's (1-1-3, 0-0-0) played to a closely contested 1-1 draw on Friday afternoon at Stang Park. With the result, Hillcats ended the non-conference play undefeated for the first time since 2019.
The first half began with St. Mary's launching a series of early attacks, but
Jaxon Kendall's strong performance in goal for Rogers State kept the game level. In the 23rd minute,
Louis Bassett chipped in his first goal of the season, assisted by
Ashton Medina—the first of his career —to put RSU ahead. However, St. Mary's responded quickly, equalizing with a goal by Enzo Jaques in the 25th minute, leaving the teams tied 1-1 at the end of the half.
The second half began with a flurry of offensive activity from STMU, as Kendall made a crucial save on a shot by Calum Murdoch in the 48th minute. Despite the initial pressure, the Hillcats responded with several corner kicks and shots, including a close attempt from Medina that struck the left woodwork in the 72nd minute.
Noah Preston-Watkins and Bassett both tested the Rattlers' goalkeeper, but their efforts were saved, maintaining the scoreline at 1-1 through the end of regulation.
Bassett scored one goal and recorded two shots on goal from three attempts for Rogers State. Medina contributed with an assist and added one shot during the match. Preston-Watkins managed two shots on goal out of three total shots.
Defensively, Kendall (4-0-2) collected his second draw of the season in goal.
Sam Ryder also contributed to the defensive showcase with a complete 90-minute outing.
The Hillcats will open conference play on the road against Harding (1-3-1) next Friday in Searcy, Arkansas. Kick off from Stevens Soccer Complex is slated for 7:00 p.m.
