Tweet #theGAC  WEATHERFORD, Okla. – SWOSU scored two goals in the first 12 minutes of Thursday's GAC Tournament semifinal match and went on to shutout Ouachita 2-0. The win moves the Bulldogs into the championship, set to be played Saturday at 11am against second-seeded Oklahoma Baptist.

"Scoring early when we did was really important for us and we set the tone in our favor," coach Mark Persson said. "There was a little pressure on us since we are the host school and we were able to take advantage of a couple opportunities early and score the goals. Both goals were excellent strikes and great finishes, which took some of the pressure off of us."

Brianna Benitez scored the first goal for SWOSU, giving them a 1-0 advantage early in the game. Brenna McGuirk scored another goal, assisted by Desiree Rodriguez which put the Dawgs up two goals just 12 minutes into the game.

Ouachita Baptist threatened to score a couple times, but SWOSU's defense remained solid and goalkeeper Ashley Hughes had two saves in the first half. SWOSU was ahead 2-0 at halftime.

Anna Bager nearly scored a long goal, but it was just high above the crossbar 15 minutes into the second half. SWOSU had a close free kick, but Ouachita Baptist made the save, keeping the score at 2-0 with 20 minutes left in the game. The Bulldogs continued to threaten all second half, but did not have any goals to show for it.

SWOSU recorded 11 shots, with six shots on goal. Each team recorded a corner kick and each goalkeeper saved the ball four times.

Persson said defensively, they played together as a group, which was a huge key to their success.

"Our defense has been playing really well," Persson said. "They had a few shots, but in all spots on the field to backline, midfield and our forwards, we limited their opportunities to score. Ashley had a great game, but our backline really put in work, which transferred to our midfield and forwards as well."

SWOSU improves to 13-5-1 and now sets its sights on Oklahoma Baptist. These two teams have played twice this season and split the regular season series. The winner of Saturday's match qualifies for the NCAA National tournament via automatic bid.

"In order to pull off the win Saturday, it will take a massive effort," Persson said. "The winner goes to the NCAA National tournament, so both teams will be motivated and ready to play. It is going to be a great game and it will take our best game of the season to get the win."