Box Score

HAYS, Kan. – In a matchup featuring two of the nation's top-ranked teams, No. 13 Rockhurst fell 4-1 to No. 3 Fort Hays State Thursday (August 27) afternoon in the 2026 season opener at FHSU Soccer Stadium.

The Tigers struck first in the 18th minute when Juan Linares converted a penalty kick. Fort Hays State added to its advantage less than three minutes later as Filippo Moncada found the back of the net off an assist from Francisco Degiorgi, giving the Tigers a 2-0 lead heading into halftime.

Rockhurst responded with an aggressive second-half effort and controlled much of the attacking play over the final 45 minutes. The Hawks outshot the Tigers 11-3 in the second half and earned seven of their eight corner kicks after the break, consistently applying pressure as they looked to climb back into the match.

Fort Hays State extended its lead in the 73rd minute when Degiorgi scored off an assist from Scott Dillon before Len Valkema added the Tigers' fourth goal less than three minutes later, finishing a setup from Linares.

The Hawks continued to battle down the stretch, and senior Sam McIntosh converted a penalty kick in the 85th minute to put Rockhurst on the board and score the Hawks' first goal of the 2026 season.

McIntosh led Rockhurst with five shots and two shots on goal, while Rhys Laws added three shots. The Hawks finished with a 13-11 advantage in total shots and an 8-6 edge in corner kicks.

Rockhurst will return home Saturday (August 29) night for its 2026 home opener, hosting another MIAA opponent in Newman at 7 p.m. at Bourke Field. Get your tickets for the match here.