With just 10 seconds left in regulation, freshman midfielder Mackenzie Howard broke a scoreless deadlock, scoring her first collegiate goal to give WKU Soccer a late win over Sam Houston on Sunday afternoon.

Howard’s goal was set up by a pair of freshmen. Mekenna Egan delivered a cross to defender Lauren Alexander, who sent the ball across the box to Howard for an easy finish that sealed the Hilltoppers’ victory.

Both teams were kept in the game by strong goalkeeping performances. WKU senior Maddie Davis recorded six saves, including one in the final minute to preserve the shutout. On the other end, Sam Houston graduate student Katie Bahn made three saves, one of which came just before halftime to keep the match level.

The Hilltoppers and Bearkats traded possession throughout the match, remaining evenly matched for most of the afternoon. Sam Houston tallied 16 shots, seven of which were on target, while WKU finished with 11 total shots and four on goal.

The win moves the Hilltoppers to 3-0-1 in Conference USA play, keeping them undefeated in conference play.

WKU Soccer returns to action Sunday Oct. 12 as they travel to Springfield to face Missouri State. Kick off set for 1 p.m.