LAKEWOOD, Colo. – Jace Starling scored the game-winning goal in the second half as MSU Denver men's soccer closed its 2026 regular season with a 1-0 road victory over Colorado Christian on Wednesday evening at Trailblazer Stadium.
The Roadrunners (7-6-4, 4-5-1 RMAC) broke a scoreless deadlock in the 67th minute when Starling found the back of the net at 66:32. Dominic Athearn provided the assist, setting up the lone goal of the match and giving MSU Denver the lead it would protect through the final whistle.
Starling finished the season as the Roadrunners' leading scorer with six goals. He was a constant threat against the Cougars, recording six shots and putting four on target before finishing the night with the decisive strike.
MSU Denver created opportunities throughout the contest, finishing with 15 shots and 10 shots on goal. Bryan Vazquez put all three of his attempts on target, while John Lucio and Colin McKenna each recorded a shot on goal. The Roadrunners also earned two corner kicks.
The Roadrunners' defense held Colorado Christian (4-9-5, 3-6-1 RMAC) scoreless despite pressure in both halves. Goalkeeper Dominic Miller played all 90 minutes and made four saves to secure the shutout. The Cougars finished with seven shots, including five on goal, and nine corner kicks.
After Starling's goal, MSU Denver continued to manage the match while looking for an insurance tally. Starling tested Colorado Christian goalkeeper Owen Sutherland again late in the 88th minute, but his attempt was saved. The Roadrunners' defense held firm through the closing minutes to preserve the 1-0 result.
Despite ending the season with a victory, the Roadrunners did not qualify for the RMAC Tournament, bringing its 2026 campaign to a close with a 7-6-4 overall record and a 4-5-1 mark in conference play.
