The McPherson College Bulldogs opened their 2026 soccer campaign on a Saturday night, hosting Mid-America Christian University on their home turf. The atmosphere was electric as the team aimed to start the season strong in front of a supportive crowd.
The first half unfolded without a goal, as both sides traded possession while McPherson’s goalkeeper Alvaro Marchal turned away two shots on target from the visitors. The deadlock remained unbroken heading into the break.
A Turning Point
Midway through the interval, Elliot Powrie collected his second caution and was dismissed, leaving the Bulldogs a man down heading into the break. The red card shifted momentum and added pressure to the home side.
The deadlock was finally broken in the 63rd minute when MACU struck for a solitary goal, sealing a 1‑0 victory that left the Bulldogs to regroup after a hard‑fought contest. The goal came from a well‑placed strike that slipped past Marchal.
Looking ahead, McPherson will host Doane University next Saturday at Brubaker Family Stadium, with kickoff scheduled for noon, offering a chance at redemption on familiar ground.