COLORADO SPRINGS, CO. — The Westminster men's soccer team capped off a milestone season Friday night with a hard-fought 2–1 loss to the University of Colorado Colorado Springs in the RMAC Semifinals. The defeat ended what has been one of the program's most successful and encouraging campaigns in recent years, a season that featured 11 wins, the first home playoff game, and victory in quite some time, and a return to consistent postseason contention. While the scoreboard didn't favor the Griffins in Colorado Springs, the team's effort and growth throughout the year reflected a program firmly trending upward.

The semifinal opened with both sides creating early pressure, but it was UCCS that struck first. In the sixth minute, the Mountain Lions converted a quick attacking sequence off a long-throw as Luke Noameshie finished a feed from Miles Seminario to give the home side a 1–0 lead. The Griffins quickly settled into rhythm, regaining control of possession and pushing higher up the field. Their response came in the 24th minute when Alejandro Puente equalized off a redirected shot assist from Kolson Helquist, driving home the tying goal off their own corner kick to make it 1–1. 

As the first half wore on, Westminster dictated much of the pace and continued to create opportunities. The Griffins outshot UCCS 16–13 overall, recorded six shots on goal, and earned a 9–7 advantage in corners. The back line remained organized, with the midfield controlling large stretches of possession and limiting UCCS' chances. The second half followed a similar pattern until the 77th minute, when UCCS capitalized on a loose ball on a Tommy Manwaring punch just outside the box. Eduardo Macias took advantage of the opening, scoring unassisted to put the Mountain Lions ahead 2–1. Despite Westminster's relentless push in the closing minutes, including several near chances off set pieces and late runs into the box, UCCS held on to secure the narrow win and advance.

Though the result brought the Griffins' postseason to a close, the 2025 campaign marked a clear step forward for the program. Westminster's 11 victories reflected its most consistent play in years, driven by improved depth, tactical discipline, and a balanced attack that produced success against top RMAC competition. Hosting and winning a home playoff match added another layer of accomplishment to a season defined by progress and belief. The Griffins leave this year with momentum, experience, and a sense of optimism about what lies ahead. The foundation built over the past few months — highlighted by growth across every position group and the ability to compete at a high level — has set the tone for future success. For Westminster, this season wasn't just a strong finish; it was a signal of what's to come.