Written By Rev. Justin C. Jackson

Round Rock, TX – After a long weekend that took the Stallions from Houston to Austin, weaving through heavy traffic, families, and even motorcycle riders heading to the Capital, North American University's men's soccer team gave Huston-Tillotson a battle that came down to the wire.

The action started fast, with Manuel Guevara giving HT the early edge just 39 seconds into the match. The Stallions responded in the 11th minute when Wilman Landaverde converted a penalty kick, bringing the score level at 1–1. Huston-Tillotson struck again in the 22nd minute through Christian Kisukulu, and that goal held up as the game-winner.

NAU poured 12 total shots with seven on target, led by Sandile Mdauli with two attempts on goal and Wilman Landaverde netting the Stallions' lone score. Keeper Gino Burioni made two critical saves, keeping the team within striking distance until the final whistle.

The match was physical, with 14 combined fouls and a yellow card each for Isaiah Castillo and Andrew Gonzalez. Corners and possession battles kept fans on the edge of their seats, but the Stallions couldn't find that equalizer in the second half.

Coach Apande reflected on the effort: "Our guys showed resilience and fought for every ball. The travel and back-to-back games make it tough, but we're building character and learning from every moment on the road."

The Stallions now regroup after a grueling weekend, taking positives from their determined play and looking forward to returning home for their next NAIA clash.