BROWNWOOD, Texas – The Howard Payne University women's soccer team made history Saturday evening, defeating Hardin-Simmons University 1-0 for the first time in program history as the Lady Jackets wrapped up the home portion of their 2025 regular season schedule.

After a scoreless first half, the Lady Jackets broke through in the 82nd minute when Abbie Wetzel found the back of the net off an assist from Alayna Lopez. Wetzel's goal, her third of the season, proved to be the game-winner as the HPU defense held strong the rest of the way.

Goalkeeper Landry Combs delivered a phenomenal performance, recording 13 saves to earn the shutout. The Lady Jackets were outshot 26-6 by the Cowgirls but capitalized on their chances and stayed organized defensively throughout the match.

Howard Payne improved to 6-8 overall and 1-4 in conference play with the victory, while Hardin-Simmons fell to 8-3-2 and 3-2 in league action. The win marked the first time in program history that Howard Payne has defeated Hardin-Simmons, long considered one of the top programs in the American Southwest Conference.

"This was a huge moment for our program," said head coach Brandon Badgeley. "Our players believed from start to finish and showed incredible heart against a very good team. It's a win that represents how far we've come and the direction we're headed."

Howard Payne will now turn its attention to the final stretch of the regular season as the Lady Jackets prepare to close out ASC play on the road next week