JOPLIN, Mo. — Presley Whitmire capitalized on a late penalty kick to lead Missouri Southern soccer (2-2-1) to a 1-1 draw with Oklahoma Baptist (0-3-2) Wednesday evening at Fred G. Hughes Stadium.
Following a Bison penalty in the box, Whitmire found the back of the net from the spot in the 82nd minute to bring the Lions level at 1-1.
The goal was Whitmire's career-best third of the season and second in as many games.
With the tie, MSSU now has a 2-2-1 mark while OBU moves to 0-3-2 in 2025.
The first half began with a defensive stance from
Bella Smith, who made saves at the 12th and 26th minutes to keep MSSU competitive. Despite these efforts, Oklahoma Baptist took the lead with a goal by Lauren Hanley, assisted by Sam Sheffield, in the 14th minute. The Lions created several opportunities, including shots from
Nathalia Luiz in the ninth minute and
Ashten Holloway in the 29th minute, but were unable to find the back of the net, ending the half trailing 1-0.
The second half began with the Lions pressing Oklahoma Baptist, as Luiz's shot in the 47th minute was saved by Jolee King. Despite several attempts, it wasn't until the 82nd minute that Whitmire capitalized on a penalty kick to equalize the match at 1-1. Smith was instrumental in maintaining the draw, making crucial saves late in the half, including a stop against Hope White in the 88th minute.
Whitmire made a significant contribution by scoring one goal and recording two shots on net. Smith was crucial in defense, making seven saves and facing 13 shots. Luiz was active offensively, leading the team with three shots, two of which were on target.
MSSU wraps the week on Sunday, heading to Tahlequah, Oklahoma, to face Northeastern State University. First kick is set for 1 p.m., CT.
