ADA, Okla. — Falling to East Central previously this season, Southern Nazarene returned the favor Saturday afternoon, picking up the pace in the second half to defeat the Tigers 1-0.
Making the trek over to Ada, Oklahoma this weekend, the Storm (4-4-2, 1-2-2) pulled off a late goal to secure the victory over the Tigers (1-7-3, 1-3-1). SNU's gritty win over ECU is their first conference victory since 2020, making this match extra special for Head Coach Josh Smith's squad.
Play was stagnant for much of the contest, largely controlled by the defensive efforts of both teams. East Central was a bit more aggressive on offense, but SNU keeper Gianna Bonnett protected the Storm goal as she picked up six saves in the match and denied every Tiger chance at a goal.
In the 63rd minute, Kaitlyn Deaton found Josie Van for a goal, ending the scoring drought with a 1-0 lead.
East Central couldn't counter with the remaining minutes left, leaving SNU to secure the 1-0 victory, which would tack on their first conference victory to the 2022 season.
SNU will remain on the road as they head to Northwestern Oklahoma State Thursday, October 6th for a 6 p.m. kick-off. The Rangers are currently 1-2-1 in conference with a win also over East Central.
