Xavier men’s soccer looks toward the redemption in conference play 

November 4, 2024

By Jackson Kuykendall , Sports Writer 

Xavier Men’s Soccer played the nationally ranked No. 8 University of Mobile on Sept. 7. The game ended in a tie: 2-2. Although the Gold Rush came up short at last year’s Red River Athletic Conference, they have been making sure they come back stronger this season. 

“The message is definitely that we can compete against anyone,” said Gonzalo Carranza, the coach of the men’s soccer team at Xavier.  

Although they didn’t win the game against the University of Mobile, Carranza said it strengthened the team and provided an early test in the season for them.  

“We are ready for conference play, and hope to be celebrating a title birth after the next 13 games,” he said. 

An integral part of that winning team formula is having a strong goalkeeper. Breno Zanolla, the Xavier men’s soccer captain and starting goalkeeper is ready to take on that role. 

“I think that with my personality and maturity I can get that out of my teammates as well,” Zanolla said. “You can’t be afraid when you play this game at all. Everything must be on the line to win.” 

Xavier Men’s Soccer has a record of 1-1-1 in their non-conference games, scoring 8 goals and conceding 3.  The defense of Xavier has improved tremendously, and local talent seems to have created that impact. Rajuan Beckford, the sophomore defender from Metairie, La. has been an impact player. 

“Being a part of Xavier men’s soccer team as a local player really is a proud moment for me,” Beckford said. “It sheds light on other local players, giving them the opportunity to play the sport they love at a collegiate level. As for my mindset, it has been the same throughout my two years being with the team, to give my 100-percent every practice and wait for my opportunity to come,” Beckford said. 

Xavier Men’s soccer is now on the road to start their conference games. They played Southwest at Bob Moran Field in Hobbs, New Mexico at 3:30pm MDT on September 19 with the game ending in a loss: 1-2.  Following that match, they headed to Dallas to play Paul Quinn at Gio Macias Field at 1:30pm MDT time on September 21 where they won: 6-1. As of now, the team is dominating the field with a record of 9 games won and 2 games lost. Go Gold Rush!