BEAUMONT, Texas - Lamar University (4-4-3, 1-0-2) soccer sent its fans home with one of the most thrilling victories in program history as sophomore Sydney Williams scored the game-winner with less than a minute to play. Williams' game-winner was her second goal of the season and secured a 2-1 victory over Houston Christian (5-5-1, 0-1-1) Thursday evening at the LU Soccer Complex.

Williams' goal was set up by a Lauren Smith corner kick. Smith also tallied the equalizing goal, assisted by Kam Jalayer, and now has eight to remain the Southland Conference's goal leader. 

From the beginning, Big Red came out on the offensive but was unable to strike one past HCU's goalkeeper. LU's defense held the Huskies without a shot until the 29th minute, while Eloise Bywater's only save of the match came 10 minutes later. 

HCU took the first lead of the game when they netted their only goal with 13 seconds remaining in the opening half, which also came off a corner kick. LU and HCU entered the break with shots even at 5-5. 

Despite not having the momentum early in the second half, it was Lamar who sought to gain it back. After three HCU shots, the Cardinals got their tying goal with Smith striking one from outside the box in the 67th minute. LU turned up the offensive heat and held the opposition without a shot for the remainder of the contest, as the Cardinals outshot the Huskies 7-3 in the frame. 

Just when it appeared the match would end in a third-straight draw for Big Red, the Cardinals were given one more chance on a corner kick. Smith took the kick, and with 50 seconds left, the ball went to Williams, who headed it in to break the Husky hearts and bring LU its first conference win of the season.

Big Red will head down south to Corpus Christi Thursday, Oct. 2nd, to face Texas A&M-Corpus Christi. Kickoff is slated for 7 p.m. and will be streamed on ESPN+.