SHAWNEE -- Despite an early goal and a spirited defensive effort, Oklahoma Baptist came up just short Friday night as Central Oklahoma scored in the final seconds to claim a 2-1 victory at the OBU Soccer Complex.

The Bison struck first less than three minutes into the match. In the 3rd minute, Hope White found the back of the net off an assist from Clara Martin, giving OBU an early 1-0 advantage.

Central Oklahoma responded quickly, leveling the score at 1-1 in the 8th minute when Emma Nicholas scored an unassisted goal from near the top of the box. The teams remained deadlocked through the remainder of the first half and much of the second as both defenses tightened.

OBU goalkeeper Makenzie Christian turned in a strong performance between the posts, recording five saves while helping the Bison withstand consistent pressure from the Bronchos. UCO finished with a 15-8 advantage in total shots and placed eight attempts on frame. Christian made several key stops down the stretch, including saves in the 81st, 83rd and 89th minutes to preserve the tie.

The Bison generated chances of their own, with Ryann Phillips, Addison Gray and White combining for six of the team's eight shots. Stella Soderbom made two saves for the Bronchos, denying second-half opportunities by Gray and Phillips.

With match time approaching its end, the Bronchos earned a corner kick with 14 seconds remaining. Off the ensuing service, Sophia Gaskins, the tallest player on the field at that point, connected on the match-winner with a header with two seconds on the clock. The assist was provided by Greta Likens.

The loss drops Oklahoma Baptist to 0-3 on the season, while Central Oklahoma improved to 1-2. The Bison will look to bounce back in their next non-conference match which comes Sept. 9 at home against Newman.