CHICKASHA, Okla. – The Wayland Baptist Pioneers women's soccer team left everything on the field Friday afternoon, battling No. 2 seed University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma through 110 minutes of scoreless soccer before falling 4-2 in a penalty shootout in the Sooner Athletic Conference Tournament Semifinals at McLaughlin Field.
The No. 3 seeded Pioneers displayed tremendous heart and determination, holding the Drovers scoreless through regulation and two overtime periods despite facing relentless offensive pressure. The heartbreaking result brought Wayland's postseason run to an end, but not before one final defensive performance that showcased the team's resilience.
Senior goalkeeper Ashley Lopez delivered an outstanding performance between the posts, recording 12 saves across all 110 minutes to keep the Pioneers alive. Lopez faced 28 shots from the Drovers, including 12 on goal, refusing to allow a breakthrough despite constant pressure.
USAO controlled much of the offensive possession, outshooting Wayland 28-5 and holding a 12-0 advantage in corner kicks. However, the Pioneer defense remained disciplined throughout the afternoon, turning away opportunity after opportunity.
Wayland's offense found its best opportunities in the second half. Camila Zavala led the Pioneers with three shot attempts, while Alexia Fregoso registered Wayland's lone shot on goal in the 67th minute. Gabriella Chapa also added a shot attempt in the 72nd minute.
With neither team able to find the back of the net through 90 minutes, the contest moved into overtime.
Lopez continued her impressive showing in the extra periods, making three additional saves to preserve the scoreless tie. The Pioneers fought through both 10-minute overtime periods, forcing the semifinal matchup to be decided by penalty kicks.
In the shootout, USAO converted its first two attempts while Eduarda Martins successfully converted Wayland's second attempt. After the Drovers converted their third opportunity, Tannia Diaz stepped up and buried her penalty kick to keep the Pioneers' hopes alive.
However, USAO converted its fourth attempt to secure the 4-2 shootout victory and advance to the SAC Tournament Championship.
Despite the difficult ending, the Pioneers can look back on a season that included a third-place finish in the Sooner Athletic Conference standings, a home postseason victory over Nelson University in the quarterfinals, and an appearance in the conference semifinals.
Wayland's postseason journey came to an end Friday, but the determination, defensive toughness, and relentless effort displayed throughout the semifinal reflected a team that battled until the very last kick.
The Pioneers conclude their 2026 campaign having earned a place among the final four teams in the Sooner Athletic Conference Tournament.
