TAHLEQUAH, Okla. — No. 17 Rogers State men's soccer (11-2-4, 7-2-2 GAC/MIAA) secured a big 1-0 regional win over Northeastern State (8-7-2, 5-6-0 GAC/MIAA) at DeLoache Field on Thursday. 

The game-winning goal came in the first half, with the Hillcats capitalizing on one of their 10 total shots, five of which were on target. The Cats' defense held firm, with goalkeeper Jaxon Kendall making two crucial saves to maintain his already established school-record ninth shutout of the season. The RiverHawks managed just five shots, with only two on goal, unable to break through the RSU defense.

The first half began with RSU establishing control early, as Louis Bassett (2) capitalized on an opportunity to find the net in the 13th minute, assisted by Ashton Medina. This goal set the tone for the Hillcats, who maintained pressure with multiple shots and corner kicks throughout the half. Defensively, Kendall was notable for his saves, keeping the RiverHawks from equalizing, including a crucial stop against Carl Murch in the 6th minute and another from Guilherme Nakamura late in the half. RSU concluded the half leading 1-0, demonstrating effective play on both sides of the field.

The second half commenced with RSU maintaining its narrow lead, as Noah Preston-Watkins attempted an early shot that sailed over the goal. The defensive play was intense, with both teams committing multiple fouls throughout the half, disrupting the flow of play. The Hillcats continued to press forward, with Oliver Hemlin's effort on goal saved by the RiverHawks' Cameron McColloch, while Brandon O'Rourke also saw his shot saved later in the half.

Despite the persistent offensive efforts, neither team was able to alter the scoreline in the second half. The half concluded with the Hillcats preserving their 1-0 advantage over the RiverHawks, successfully defending their lead until the final whistle.

The week will conclude with the regular season finale at Soldier Field against Harding at 1 p.m. Seniors Brandon O'Rourke, Ryan Harvatin, Ethan Koepke and Elijah Bustamante will be honored on Senior Day before kickoff.