Stalemate at Stump Park: Woodland FC and Leawood Forest Battle to Scoreless Draw

Shawnee, KS — May 27, 2025

In the first match following the close of the summer transfer window, defending Select League champions Woodland FC were held to a 0-0 draw by a revamped Leawood Forest side on a cool, overcast evening at Stump Park.

Kickoff came at 6:30 p.m., two hours before sunset, in front of a crowd eager to see how each club’s recent roster changes would affect the on-field product. Woodland, known for their cohesion and defensive solidity, made minor changes during the window—adding two players and loaning out two others. But the story of the night belonged to Leawood Forest and their ambitious squad overhaul.

0-0 draw gives Forest first result of the season against defending champions.

With nine new additions following several roster cuts, Leawood Forest wasted no time showing they belong on the same pitch as the reigning champs. Debutants Abdinasir Aden, Mark Csongradi, Nico Navarro, Morgan Spilker, Samuel Habimana, and John Edwards all featured prominently and injected fresh energy into a side that had been struggling for consistency early in the season.

The match itself was tight and tactically balanced. Woodland created a handful of quality chances through their attacking core, but Forest’s backline stood firm, with Navarro and Spilker in particular making key interventions. On the other end, Leawood’s dynamic newcomers linked well in possession and nearly broke through on several occasions, but Woodland’s keeper and defense held their ground.

It was a physical and competitive match, reflective of two teams with different motivations—Woodland aiming to stay within top of the league, and Leawood seeking to reinvent their season. In the end, neither side could find the breakthrough.

For Leawood Forest, the draw marks their first result of the season—a much-needed morale boost as they prepare for their upcoming Kansas State Cup campaign. Head coach comments post-match hinted at pride in the team's discipline and belief that this performance is a sign of things to come.

Woodland FC, meanwhile, maintain their 2nd spot in the table but will feel they missed an opportunity to claim three points at home.

Both teams now look ahead to their next fixtures with very different narratives but equal determination.

Next up: Woodland FC will welcome, now 3rd place club, Crown Villa on Friday, while Leawood Forest travels down the 135th Street for a pivotal derby matchup against Real Overland Park before turning their focus to State Cup play.