SEARCY – Bethany Sutherland recorded her third hat-trick of the season as the Harding women's soccer team defeated Northwestern Oklahoma 4-0 Thursday in Great American Conference action.

On her third goal, Sutherland broke the Harding career goals mark (49) previously held by Kendyl Washburn (2004-07).

It was the first time in program history a player has had three hat-tricks in a season. It was Sutherland's fifth career hat-trick. The most ever by a Harding player. It was also the first hat-trick Harding has recorded against Northwestern Oklahoma.

Harding improves to 5-7-3 overall and 4-4-1 in the GAC.

Northwestern Oklahoma falls to 4-10-1 overall and 3-6-0 in the GAC.

It was Harding's second straight shutout and its second shutout of the season.

GOALS

Harding 1, Northwestern Oklahoma 0 – 20th minute – Morgan Springborn found Bethany Sutherland out on the right wing who found the back of the net for her 10th goal of the season.

Harding 2, Northwestern Oklahoma 0 – 30th minute – Bethany Sutherland hit a shot with her left foot that found the lower right corner of the net.

Harding 3, Northwestern Oklahoma 0 – 47th minute – Morgan Springborn sent in a cross from the left side that found Bethany Sutherland who scored with her right foot.

Harding 4, Northwestern Oklahoma 0 – 59th minute – Emma Chilton sent a long ball up the left side that found Morgan Springborn for her third goal of the season.

STATS

Harding took 22 shots, nine were on goal led by Bethany Sutherland who had six.

Northwestern Oklahoma had eight shots, three on goal led by Karla Lopez who had three.

The Rangers had two team saves in the game.

Jessica Woessner and Anna Claire Lewis shared the shutout for Harding in goal. Lewis had three saves in the second half.

UP NEXT

Harding will host Southwestern Oklahoma Saturday at 11 a.m., in its final home game of the season. After the game, the Lady Bisons will recognize the 2017 seniors for their contribution to the Harding soccer program.