The Tabor College women’s soccer team celebrated its first victory Sept. 24 in nearly two years, with a 3-1 defeat of Oklahoma Wesleyan.

The win snapped a 21-game losing streak for the Lady Jays, and was deeply rewarding for senior squad members, including Kelly White, who was on the field in 2006 when Tabor last tasted victory against Friends University.

“I’m very proud of our girls and grateful to see that all of our hard work has finally paid off,” White said. “I am excited to start conference games, and show everyone how we have turned this program around.”

The Lady Jays got off to a fast start against Oklahoma Wesleyan, when junior Jessica Burden scored off a pass from sophomore Leigh Costello.

Despite having multiple scoring opportunities, Burden’s goal was the only one for Tabor in the first half.

OW tied the score at one early in the second half, but the Lady Jays would not be denied.

Costello’s goal off a free-kick with 15 minutes, three seconds left gave Tabor the lead, 2-1.

Senior Joanna Pyle added an insurance goal late in the match to secure the victory.

“I was very proud of the women’s performance,” head coach Grant Brubacher said, sounding relieved. “Getting a win after enduring 21 straight losses is a great feeling. We’ve showed continued improvement and we will need further improvement as we approach the conference season.”

Tabor (1-5) traveled to Fulton, Mo., Monday to take on William Woods University.

The team returns home Saturday to open conference play against the University of St. Mary.