MARSHALL, Texas – The Howard Payne University women's soccer team closed out its regular season on a high note Saturday evening, earning a 1-0 shutout victory over East Texas Baptist University at Cornish Field.

After a scoreless first half, Abbie Wetzel delivered the game-winner for the Lady Jackets in the 79th minute, netting her fourth goal of the season to lift HPU past the Tigers. Wetzel has now scored late in back-to-back matches, providing decisive goals in both contests as Howard Payne closed the regular season with two straight victories.

Goalkeeper Landry Combs anchored the Yellow Jacket defense with a stellar performance in goal, recording three saves and securing her first shutout of the year.

Howard Payne outshot ETBU 8-8 in the match but placed seven shots on target to the Tigers' three. The Lady Jackets held a 2-1 advantage in corner kicks during the second half and remained composed despite receiving one yellow card.

With the win, Howard Payne improved to 7-8 overall and 2-4 in American Southwest Conference play, while East Texas Baptist dropped to 5-6-3 and 1-5 in league action.

Head Coach Brandon Badgeley praised his team's effort and late-season momentum, saying, "I'm really proud of how our players fought tonight. We showed discipline, toughness, and composure in a close road match, and that's exactly how you want to finish out the regular season. The team has really come together at the right time."

The Yellow Jackets now turn their focus to the upcoming ASC Tournament, entering postseason play riding a two-match winning streak and carrying strong momentum from a resilient regular-season finish.