ST. JOSEPH, Mo. - Rachyl Benavides' game-winner led the undefeated No. 20 Griffons (14-0-2, 9-0-1 MIAA) to a 1-0 victory over Missouri Southern (1-10-4, 0-7-2 MIAA) on Senior Day. With this win, MWSU achieved its eighth consecutive shutout and completed its regular season home schedule undefeated at 10-0.
 
"It wasn't our prettiest game, but there's a lot of emotion that comes into this game," head coach Jacob Plocher said following the match. "At the end of the day, we got the result, and I am excited for our seniors to be able to finish the regular season home game on a high note."
 
"Thankfully, we're in a spot where as long as we continue to perform, we can keep playing here when the conference tournament starts." Plocher added, "We'll enjoy the day and the moment now and then kind of get ready to shift focus back for next week to finish out the regular season."
 
After the match, the Griffons honored their seniors: Sophie Wellinghoff, Keeley Kroonenberg, Katelynn Rowland, Lauren Nylund, Elisabeth Pujado and Madeline Pearl. This group has played a crucial role in elevating the soccer program to new heights, achieving milestones not seen in its twenty-year history. They have helped the program secure its winningest season, the longest winning streak and the longest shutout streak in school history.
 
"They've been through a lot, so for them to have this kind of send-off is special," Plocher stated on the 2024 senior class. "I'm very proud of them, very excited for them, and happy for them for all the work and struggles they have been through to be able to have it finished this way."
 
In the 42nd minute, after Aidyn Woodall had a close-range shot ricochet off the Lions' goalkeeper, Benavides found herself in the right place at the right time to score her fourth goal of the season, which also marked her third game-winning goal. Benavides also led the team with seven shots (four on goal).
 
MWSU controlled the pitch for the majority of the match, winning the possession battle with a 58-42 advantage. Western fired off 29 shots compared to Missouri Southern's eight, including 14 shots on goal.
 
Kroonenberg (12-0-2) achieved her 12th win of the season and recorded two saves. She combined for the shutout with fellow senior goalkeeper Wellinghoff, who played in goal for the final 13 minutes.
 
Woodall, Rowland, Annie McDevitt, Nicoletta Froehlich, Nylund and Brookelyn Buttolph helped the Griffons secure their eighth consecutive shutout with complete 90-minute outings.
 
Missouri Western will wrap up the regular season on the road next weekend, starting with a matchup against Emporia State (5-7-2, 3-5-1) on Friday. Kickoff at the ESU Soccer Pitch in Emporia, Kansas, is scheduled for 3:00 PM.