Southwest drops conference opener to Xavier on September 19, 2024, losing the match 7-0 at Bob Moran Field in Hobbs, NM. The Lady Mustangs struggled to find any momentum throughout today's match. 

The match started with Xavier's Maureen Owusu scoring the opening goal just 1:59 into the game. Gabriela Gonzalez added another goal just a few minutes later at the 6:53 mark, giving Xavier a comfortable early 2-0 lead. The goals kept coming, with Alina Paiz netting two more—her second coming just before halftime—to put Xavier up 4-0 going into the break. 

Southwest, despite a few offensive attempts, could not crack Xavier's defense or goalkeeper Theresa Wiesiolek, who made crucial saves in the first half. Southwest's Rylee Thatcher managed a shot on goal early but was denied by Wiesiolek. Southwest's attempts to mount a comeback fell short as Xavier's defense remained impenetrable. 

In the second half, Xavier's Samira Roper scored twice within two minutes to extend the lead to 6-0 by the 48th minute. Faye Butterworth sealed the dominant performance with a seventh goal in the 55th minute, leaving Southwest with no answer. 

Despite their efforts, Southwest was unable to put the ball in the back of the net, with several shots going wide or high. Xavier's ability to control possession and capitalize on chances led to a one-sided affair, marking a strong win for the team. Xavier tallied 10 shots, 7 of them on target, while Southwest managed only 5 shots, none of which found the back of the net. 

Southwest's goalkeeper, Elena Moya, faced relentless pressure but could not hold off Xavier's relentless attack. Ultimately, Xavier walked away with a decisive victory, improving their record to 2-3-0. Southwest dropped to 2-1-1 following the loss. 

"We came out nervous in this match and when we were finally able to settle down and move the ball around it was already to late to try to get the results that we wanted" said head coach Edrian Negrete following the loss.  

The Lady Mustangs are back in action at home on Saturday September 21st at 1:00 PM MT versus North American University.