Nov. 23, 2002
Columbia, S.C. – The University of South Carolina men’s soccer team fell to Coastal Carolina, 2-1, in double overtime in the first round of the NCAA Tournament today at Eugene E. Stone III Stadium. The Gamecocks end the season with an 11-8-1 record. The Chanticleers improve to 19-2-2 and will travel to Clemson on Wednesday, Nov. 27 for the second round of the tournament.
South Carolina took a 1-0 early lead at 35:57. Thomas Hilliard headed the ball to Dave Moore who knocked the ball past Chanticleers’ goalkeeper Andrew Paxton. Moore posted his second goal of the season, while Hilliard recorded his first assist. USC would carry a 1-0 lead into halftime.
In the second half, Coastal Carolina tied the game in the 85th minute, sending the match into overtime. Bobby Crovo fed the ball, past two Gamecock defenders, to the feet of Mike Little field who netted his 16th goal of the year. The match would enter overtime 1-1.
In the second overtime, Bobby Crovo scored with 28 seconds remaining to give Coastal Carolina the victory.
Gamecock goalkeeper Michael Bachmeyer posted nine saves to tie USC’s individual game high for NCAA play. Coastal Carolina goalkeeper Andrew Paxton recorded two saves.
“Obviously we are devastated at this point to lose with 28 seconds left on the clock stated,” Head Coach Mark Berson. “Our team showed character today, as they did all season. It was extraordinary play for both teams and give credit to coastal because they did a great job today, coming from behind.”
