PUEBLO, Colo. - Westminster (UT) and CSU Pueblo battled to a 1-1 draw on Thursday afternoon in a tightly contested NCAA Division II match. The result extends CSU Pueblo's unbeaten streak to two matches while Westminster moves to 4-4-1 on the season.
Both teams demonstrated their offensive capabilities early, with CSU Pueblo's So Nagano testing the Westminster defense with a low shot in the 5th minute. Nick Cenek followed with another attempt for the home side in the 7th minute, while Westminster's James Miles responded with a shot that sailed high in the 9th minute.
The first half saw intense midfield battles with both teams creating opportunities. Westminster's Cam Neeley generated two chances within a minute, first having a shot blocked in the 12th minute followed by a low drive to the left. CSU Pueblo's Matty Parkes threatened in the 14th minute with a high shot that missed the target. The defensive units, led by Westminster's Owen Gallo and CSU Pueblo's Will Boyle, maintained their organization throughout the opening period.
The second half intensity increased immediately as Nick Cenek tested Westminster's defense with a shot in the 45th minute. Alejandro Puente received a yellow card for dissent in the 56th minute, marking the match's only caution. Both teams made tactical adjustments, with CSU Pueblo introducing fresh legs through multiple substitutions around the 64th minute, including the withdrawal of Will Boyle and Matty Parkes.
Final statistics reflected the evening's competitive nature, with CSU Pueblo recording 12 shot attempts to Westminster's 9. Both teams managed 6 shots on target, demonstrating the quality of chances created. Corner kicks favored the home side 3-2, while both goalkeepers were called upon to make 5 saves each.
Several players stood out individually throughout the match. Westminster's Broc Underhill created a dangerous opportunity in the 67th minute, while CSU Pueblo's Matty Parkes continued to threaten with a blocked shot in the 84th minute. Jack Cardwell nearly broke the deadlock for Westminster with a low drive in the 83rd minute.
The tactical approach from both sides emphasized controlled possession through midfield, with Westminster utilizing quick transitions through Kelii Killehua and CSU Pueblo countering through the creative play of So Nagano and Nick Cenek. The teams' defensive organizations proved equally matched, with neither able to find a decisive breakthrough.
This result maintains CSU Pueblo's strong form, moving their record to 4-0-5 on the season. The Thunderwolves have shown remarkable consistency, particularly in tight matches, while Westminster continues to demonstrate their competitive edge in conference play, now sitting at 4-4-1.
Both teams created enough chances to claim victory, but strong defensive performances and organized tactical setups resulted in a fair share of the points. The match featured moments of attacking brilliance, particularly through Westminster's Alejandro Puente's attempt in the 51st minute and CSU Pueblo's late pressure, including Matty Parkes' effort in the closing stages.
Looking ahead, CSU Pueblo will host Colorado Mesa on October 5th at 3:00 PM, while Westminster travels to face UCCS on the same day with a 1:00 PM kickoff. Both teams will look to build on their defensive solidity while seeking to convert more of their attacking opportunities in their upcoming fixtures.