CHANUTE, Kan. — In a top-10 showdown with major conference and national implications, the #4-ranked Neosho County Community College men's soccer team delivered a composed and clinical performance, defeating #9 Johnson County CC 2-0 on Wednesday afternoon.

The Panthers struck first in the 38th minute when Keane Hazeldine connected sweetly on a volley after a perfectly delivered corner kick from Chris Armitage. The goal capped off a strong first-half performance, and Neosho carried the 1-0 lead into the break.

The second half was a testament to Neosho's defensive discipline. The back line and goalkeeper remained sharp and organized, turning away multiple attacking phases from the Cavaliers. The defensive effort was rewarded late in the match when Callum Niven pounced on a rebound from a Hazeldine strike, slotting it home in the 80th minute to double the lead.

From there, the Panthers saw out the match with poise, securing a hard-fought 2-0 win over one of the top teams in the nation.

With the victory, Neosho remains unbeaten on the season and improves to 5-0-2. The Panthers now turn their focus to the weekend, where they will travel to Southeast CC for a Saturday afternoon clash. Kickoff is scheduled for 3:30 PM.