LAKE CHARLES, La. -- Mariah Titus scored three minutes into the second overtime period to give the Bearkats a hard-fought 1-0 win over McNeese State.

The game-winning goal was the sophomore midfielder's team-leading fifth goal of the season. Titus fired from the right side and goalkeeper Lauren Sestak got a hand on it but couldn't keep out.

“Today was a very big win for us,” said Bearkat head coach Tom Brown. “I thought McNeese State did a good job of pressuring us today and disrupting our possession. In the later stages of the game we were able to control more of the game and create the goal.”

McNeese State (5-5-1, 0-3 SLC) had the bulk of the scoring chances in the first half, outshooting Sam Houston (4-5-1, 2-1 SLC) 6-3. Sophomore goalkeeper Kylie Hambleton was untroubled though as she didn't have to make a save until the second half.

The Bearkats had several scoring opportunities in the second half, taking 12 total shots and forcing six saves from the Cowgirls' keeper.

Hambleton finished the day having to make just one save.

Next up for the Kats is at Northwestern State Friday at 7 p.m. The Kats will return home Sunday at 1 p.m. against Stephen F. Austin. Fans will have an opportunity to get free food, from Pita Pit, before the game.