IRVINE, Calif. – Senior captain Gregor Watson scored in the 76th minute and Rocky Mountain College earned its nation-leading 14th shutout in a 1-0 win over No. 9 Vanguard Tuesday night at the NAIA Men’s Soccer National Championships in Irvine, Calif.
Sky Swenson sent a free kick into the Vanguard goalie box, which was deflected by a Lions defender into Watson’s left hip and back into the goal. It was the Scottish defender’s fourth goal of the season.
The teams combined for just one shot on goal in the first half. Action picked up after the break, but Vanguard couldn’t break through against the No. 1 defense in the NAIA. Rocky has allowed just 14 goals in 23 matches this season, and hasn’t allowed more than two in any match.
Goalkeeper Kristofer Wennin made two saves, and had a key punch-out on a free kick with five minutes to play.
The bears have now won eight straight games, and advance to the NAIA Quarterfinals on Wednesday. They will play No. 3 Central Methodist at 7:30 p.m. MDT.
