SEARCY — Whitney Thomas scored the game's only goal late in the first half, and the Harding Lady Bisons' defense posted a shutout to defeat Ouachita Baptist 1-0 on Sunday, claiming the Great American Conference Tournament championship at Stevens Soccer Complex.

The championship marks the third GAC Tournament title in program history for Harding (12-6-2), which also won the event in 2015 and 2016. Ouachita Baptist concluded its season with an 8-7-5 record.

The decisive goal came at the 43:27 mark. Gabie Eddins initiated the attack with a cross from the left side. Julie Johnson headed the ball back into the 6-yard box, where Thomas knocked it past the goalkeeper for the game-winner.

The Lady Bisons' defense was challenged early, clearing two Ouachita Baptist shots off the goal line within the first 18 minutes of play to keep the score level.

Goalkeeper Maysa Willis maintained the clean sheet, finishing the match with five total saves. She was especially active early in the second period, recording two crucial saves in the first six minutes after halftime, before the defense stabilized and did not allow another shot on goal.

The tournament victory also brought individual honors to the Lady Bisons. Defender Calle Citty was named the GAC Tournament Most Valuable Player, and she was joined on the All-Tournament Team by goalkeeper Maysa Willis, goal-scorer Whitney Thomas, midfielder Kloey Fullerton, and defender Skylar Henley.

With the championship, Harding earns an automatic bid to the NCAA Division II Central Region Tournament. The Lady Bisons will find out their postseason opponent and location on Monday at 5:30 p.m. CDT during the official NCAA Selection Show on NCAA.com.