SHAWNEE -- Southwestern Oklahoma State picked up a 3-1 win on Saturday, defeating Oklahoma Baptist at the OBU Soccer Complex. With the victory, the Bulldogs improved to 6-2-0 overall and 2-0-0 in Great American Conference play, while the Bison fell to 0-5-3 and 0-2-0 on the season.
The Bulldogs wasted little time grabbing the lead. In just the third minute, Braelee Epp capitalized on a pass from Saoirse Hourigan to put SWOSU up 1–0. Oklahoma Baptist answered quickly, leveling the score in the 12th minute when
Hali White found the back of the net for her second goal of the season.
The deadlock didn't last long. In the 37th minute, Hourigan turned scorer, finishing off an assist from Laia Costa to restore Southwestern's advantage. The Bulldogs carried the 2–1 lead into halftime despite being outshot 8–4 in the opening period.
In the second half, SWOSU's defense stiffened behind goalkeeper Emma Young, who recorded three saves on the day. The Bulldogs extended their cushion in the 72nd minute as Ruth Vasquez slotted home an insurance goal, sealing the 3–1 win.
Although OBU generated 13 shots compared to Southwestern's 10, they were unable to capitalize after the early equalizer. The Bulldogs controlled possession in key stretches, earning five corner kicks and limiting the Bison to few quality chances after halftime.
The Bison finished with four shots on goal, one from White and the others by
Annabelle Joski,
Macie Brannum and
Lex Williamson.
Next week, OBU will head to Harding on Oct. 1 for a 3 p.m. match.
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