FHSU Athletics
HAYS, Kan. — The No. 3 ranked Fort Hays State men's soccer team secured a decisive 4-1 victory over No. 13 ranked Rockhurst in season opener at FHSU Soccer Stadium on Thursday afternoon. The Tigers scored two goals in each half, building a 4-0 lead, and maintained consistent pressure throughout the match.
Fort Hays State took control early, capitalizing on a penalty kick goal by Juan Linares in the 18th minute. The home side extended its lead when Filippo Moncada scored with an assist from Francisco Degiorgi in the 21st minute. The Tiger defense held firm, with Payton Roehrich making a pair of crucial saves to maintain the two goal lead at halftime.
Fort Hays State capitalized on a strong offensive push in the second period, securing two goals to extend its lead over Rockhurst. Francisco Degiorgi found the net on a well placed strike just outside the box in the 73rd minute, assisted by Scott Dillon. Then Len Valkema added another goal in the 75th minute with help from a Juan Linares corner kick. The Hawks managed to respond late with a penalty kick goal by Sam McIntosh in the 85th minute after a hand ball in the box, but the lead was insurmountable.
Looking ahead, Fort Hays State welcomes Regis University to Hays, Kansas, on Saturday, Aug. 29, at 3 p.m. It will be the season opener for Regis.
FHSU Top Performers
Juan Linares – 3 points (1 goal, 1 assist)
Francisco Degiorgi – 3 points (1 goal, 1 assist)
Filippo Moncada – Game-winning goal
Len Valkema – 1 goal
Payton Roehrich – 84 minutes, 0 goals allowed, 3 saves