OKLAHOMA CITY, OK – The Wayland Baptist Women's Soccer team earned a crucial Sooner Athletic Conference victory Saturday afternoon, defeating Oklahoma City University 2-1 at Brian Harvey Field. After falling behind in the first half, the Pioneers responded with two unanswered goals to secure the road victory and build momentum heading into their regular-season finale.
With the victory, Wayland improves to 9-5-1 overall and 6-2 in conference play.
Oklahoma City struck first in the 33rd minute when Amelia Horsford found the back of the net off an assist from Karima Marhabi, giving the Stars a 1-0 advantage.
The Pioneers wasted little time responding, as Erin Carr delivered the equalizer just over three minutes later. Carr scored her second goal of the season in the 36th minute, tying the match at 1-1 and sending both teams into halftime even.
Wayland continued to apply offensive pressure early in the second half. Tannia Diaz nearly gave the Pioneers the lead in the 50th minute when her shot struck the post. Camila Zavala and Talia Gisonni also generated scoring opportunities, forcing saves from Oklahoma City goalkeeper Candela Blanco.
The breakthrough came in the 66th minute when Lilly Gansauge scored her fourth goal of the season to put Wayland ahead 2-1. Gansauge's goal proved to be the game-winner as the Pioneers held off Oklahoma City's late offensive pressure.
The Stars continued to threaten throughout the final 25 minutes, including an opportunity in the 71st minute when Yami Ponce struck the crossbar. However, Wayland's defense remained composed and preserved the one-goal advantage through the final whistle.
Maria Tomas delivered an outstanding performance in goal for the Pioneers, recording 10 saves while allowing just one goal in 90 minutes of action. Tomas made six saves in the second half to help secure the victory.
Offensively, Wayland finished with 13 shots, including six on goal, while Oklahoma City recorded 22 shots with 11 on target. Gansauge led the Pioneers with four shots and two on goal, while Zavala and Gisonni each contributed three shots.
Wayland Baptist Head Coach Alex Castaneda praised his team's effort and determination in securing the important conference victory.
"Really proud of our team and the way we competed today. Oklahoma City is a quality opponent, and it took a complete team effort to get the result. Our players showed great determination, composure, and fight in a big conference matchup. We found a way to get the job done, and now our focus shifts to our final matchup against MACU and continue building momentum heading into postseason play."
The victory gives the Pioneers another important conference result as they prepare for the final stretch of the season.
UP NEXT
Wayland Baptist will close out its regular season against Mid-America Christian University (MACU) on Oct 28 at 5:00 PM.
