CANYON, Texas – The Buffaloes of West Texas A&M closed out their non-conference schedule in style on Saturday afternoon as they picked up a 2-0 shutout win over the Saints of Saint Martin's at the Toyota Soccer Complex in Frisco, Texas.
 
The first half between WT and Saint Martin's ended scoreless, marked by strong defensive efforts from both sides. Bryce Cottle made a crucial save in the 18th minute on a bottom-left shot by Saint Martin's Soren Hanson. WT's Delahmu Reeves had two attempts at goal in close succession around the 22nd and 24th minutes, both saved by Saint Martin's goalkeeper Connor Leistiko. The period featured multiple fouls, with the Buffs committing several, including three by Desire Essis and two by Joe Ballenger, which disrupted their attacking momentum.
 
WT capitalized early in the second half with a goal by Essis in the 48th minute, assisted by Reeves, putting them ahead 1-0. Saint Martin's attempted to respond, but a shot by Lukas Wexler was saved by Cottle. The Buffs extended the lead to 2-0 with a goal from D'Jonte Davis in the 73rd minute, assisted by Connor Duggan. Despite efforts from Saint Martin's, including a shot by Paul Lopez and two corner kicks, the home team could not find the back of the net before the final whistle.
 
Davis scored once, adding to his total with two shots on goal out of three attempts. Essis netted the game-winning goal and recorded four shots, one of which was on target. Duggan contributed an assist while also taking a shot during the match. Cottle recorded a shutout with two saves, playing all 90 minutes as goalkeeper.
 
Leistiko provided a solid performance as the goalkeeper, registering three saves while facing 14 shots and conceding two goals. Hanson contributed offensively with two shots, one of which was on target, leading the team in both categories alongside Wexler, who also recorded a shot on goal. Landen Diaz added pressure with two shots, though none found the target.
 
The Buffs open Lone Star Conference action on Wednesday afternoon as they host Texas A&M International with kickoff set for 5:00 p.m. at The Pitch in Canyon.