COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — Midwestern State (19-3-3) secured a historic 2-0 victory over Rollins (14-5-5) on Sunday at Weidner Field, clinching its first national championship. The Mustangs, avenging a 2-1 loss to Rollins in the 2010 national semifinals, allowed only four shots and recorded its fourth shutout of the 2025 NCAA Division II Men's Soccer Championship and 15th of the season.
The first half began with Midwestern St. setting an aggressive tone, as
Dereck Espinal initiated the attack with an early shot in the 4th minute. Despite several attempts from
Parker Plaxco and
Liam Pritchard, Rollins goalkeeper Kilian Vallant made crucial saves to keep the Mustangs at bay. MSU maintained pressure through multiple corner kicks, with
Liam Kervick's attempt in the 27th minute also thwarted by Vallant.
As the half progressed, MSU continued to create opportunities, highlighted by
Alan Rivera's shot in the 19th minute, which was again saved. Despite numerous offensive efforts, including a shot from
Jaime Villagomez, the half concluded scoreless, with both teams unable to break the deadlock. The game remained level at 0-0 heading into the break.
The second half began with momentum shifting towards the Maroon & Gold as
Sune Espevoll scored his second goal of the season by converting a corner kick opportunity into a goal in the 56th minute, putting the team ahead 1-0. MSU continued to apply pressure, with
Parker Plaxco and
Dereck Espinal both creating shooting opportunities early in the half.
As the half progressed, MSU maintained control, highlighted by midfielder
Liam Pritchard's third goal of the season in the 86th minute, assisted by Espinal, which extended the lead to 2-0. The defense held strong, with
Jake Morris making a crucial save in the 90th minute to secure the clean sheet.
Pritchard was named the Most Valuable Player of the 2025 NCAA Division II Men's Soccer Championship. Pritchard had a goal and four assists through five games during the postseason tournament.
Forwards
Alan Rivera and
Parker Plaxco, defensemen
Davis Mays and
Jaime Villagomez, and goalkeeper
Jake Morris were also named to the All-Tournament team.
-- MSUMustangs.com --
