BALDWIN CITY, Kan. – William Woods men's soccer (7-7-4, 4-5-4 Heart) wrote the final chapter of their 2025 story Tuesday night, falling 2–1 to top seeded RV Baker University (13-4-2, 9-3-1) on the road. Despite tallying the first goal in the contest, Woods could not find an answer for the Baker front allowing two late goals to end the game.
After a scoreless first half that saw minimal chances for either side, the Owls struck quickly following the break. In the 46th minute, Francesco Dibra slotted a shot past the keeper to give The Woods a 1–0 advantage. It marked Dibra's third goal of the season and gave the Owls early control against a Baker side ranked atop the Heart standings.
The Wildcats found their response in the 59th minute when Akira Itadani converted from the penalty spot to level the game at one. Moments later, the match took a sharp turn as William Woods went down to ten men following a red card shown to a Woods midfielder. Playing a man down, the Owls fought to hold on but conceded the would-be game-winner just three minutes later—a header from Baker defender Utah Hester off a corner setup by Itadani and Julien DeAngelis.
Matthew Dworak made three saves between the posts for William Woods, while the Owls finished with eight total shots and five corner kicks on the night. Miles Andrews led the effort offensively with three attempts, including one on target.
The Owls finish the 2025 campaign with a 7–7–4 overall record in their inaugural year competing in the Heart of America Athletic Conference—a season highlighted by statement wins, strong defensive showings, and a group that consistently brought top programs to the wire.
