Sept. 17, 2003

Gamecock Soccer Ranked in Top 25 in Six NCAA Categories

Columbia, S.C. – The NCAA released the updated NCAA Statistics late in the day on Tuesday and South Carolina men’s soccer was represented in eight different categories. South Carolina has started the season with a 6-0-0 record, and is one of only nine teams left in Division I soccer to remain undefeated.

The USC offense has outscored its opponents 19-2 through six matches and are averaging 3.17 goals per match. Their impressive power up front have ranked the Gamecocks fourth in the country in scoring offense. Leading the team in points is Ayo Akinsete, who is currently 14th in the country in points per game with 2.33. Akinsete is also riding a six-match scoring streak and is tied for ninth in goals per match, averaging 1.00.

On the defensive side of the ball, the Gamecocks are also ranked in the top 10. In team goals against average, USC is seventh with .33 goals allowed per match and tied for 11th in shutout percentage (.67). Freshman goalkeeper Brad Guzan also made the rankings with his impressive showing. He is currently ranked eighth in the country in goals against average (.33).

South Carolina returns to action Sunday, Sept. 21 when they host Appalachian State at 4:oo p.m. A live internet broadcast of the match can be heard at www.uscsports.com.