TULSA, Okla. – Drake University men's soccer continued their unbeaten start to the 2025 campaign with an intense 2-1 road win over Tulsa, with junior midfielder Jackson Kirsch converting a penalty kick in the 84th minute to seal the victory.

"Massive road performance and result for the team tonight," Drake head coach Pat Flinn said. "We've grown every match and that's the thing I'm most excited about."

The Bulldogs (3-0-2) wasted no time creating pressure in the first half and made the initial strike in the 17th minute. Sophomore forward Preston Kipnusu netted his third goal of the season off a setup from Barrett Kitts, giving Drake an early edge. The advantage didn't last long, however, as Tulsa's Will Applegate responded just three minutes later with the equalizer, sending the match into halftime tied 1-1.

In the 84th minute, Tulsa midfielder Bowen McCloud was whistled for a foul in the box, setting up a Drake penalty kick. Kirsch, Drake's captain, stepped up and buried it for his second goal of the year, putting the Bulldogs back in front for good.

Drake outshot Tulsa 12-7, with Kipnusu leading the way with three attempts. Goalkeeper Tomas Butkovic made two saves, including a crucial stop in the final stretch, to preserve the win.
"I could cite a ton of individuals by name, but we're a team, a collective group of guys that are all in for each other," Flinn added. "I will acknowledge Jackson Kirsch, his recent performances epitomize what a great captain is. Time to recover and get ready for the next action…Kansas City is a great team and will be a real test. Go Dogs."

The Bulldogs will continue their road swing on Tuesday, Sep. 9, when they face Kansas City at 7:30 p.m.