MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Midfielder Bree Williamson broke a second-half deadlock with her collegiate goal of the season to lift the Harding women's soccer team to a 1-0 victory over Christian Brothers in Thursday evening's season opener at Signaigo Field.
Williamson found the back of the net in the 57th minute off dual assists from forward Gabie Eddins and forward Mykala Ulrich, providing all the offense the Lady Bisons (1-0-0) would need.
Harding's backline delivered a dominant defensive performance, holding the Lady Bucs (0-1-0) without a single shot on goal and allowing just one total off-target attempt across the entire 90 minutes.
Goalkeepers Maysa Willis and Emerson Simmons combined for the team shutout. Willis got the start and logged 80:54 between the posts before Simmons closed out the final 9:06 to preserve the clean sheet.
The Lady Bisons set the tempo early, controlling set pieces with seven of their eight corner kicks coming in the opening half. Harding outshot Christian Brothers 5-1 overall and forced CBU goalkeeper Kaylee Allen to make three saves.
Midfielder Claire Citty recorded a team-high two shots, including one on frame, while defender Norah Neely and forward Julie Johnson each added a shot on goal for Harding.
The Lady Bisons return to action on Sunday, Aug. 30, when they travel to Tahlequah, Oklahoma, for a 3 p.m. matchup against Northeastern State.
