MATTHEWS, N.C. – The Radford Highlanders claimed the 2022 Big South Tournament Championship on Sunday afternoon defeating Gardner-Webb 3-0.
 
In the first half, Radford took the lead off a direct kick by Helena Willson less than five minutes into the match. The Highlanders took six shots and had six corners in the first 45 minutes. Gardner-Webb started to create opportunities in the final ten minutes earning its first two corners and Camila Lezcano directing a shot on goal from outside of the box. 
 
After the break, Gardner-Webb's Maddie Turlington started on a tear, creating scoring opportunities for the Runnin' Bulldogs. GWU took four corners and had a pair of chances saved off the goal line. As the offense continued to put pressure on the Highlanders' defense, Radford was able to convert on a pair of counters, pushing the lead to 3-0. Katelyn O'Donnell netted one off a Paige Olson assist in the 58th minute followed by Kat Parris scoring from a Willson pass in the 63rd. 
 
"It felt a lot closer than the score showed," said head coach Mike Varga. "We were pushing numbers forward, applying pressure and unfortunately they were able to counter on those attacks."
 
Following the conclusion of the game, the conference announced the All-Tournament Team. Gardner-Webb's Carina Leal, Alli Varga, and Marina Bradic each earned nods onto the list. 
 
"I am really proud of the way we played this year," said Varga. "I am looking forward to the talent we have returning and building off of this next season."
 
With the loss, Gardner-Webb finished the year 9-7-5 as conference runner-ups.