Sept. 4, 2004

ROCK HILL, S.C. –
The South Carolina men’s soccer team defeated Winthrop on Saturday afternoon, 2-0, in Rock Hill, S.C. The Gamecocks improved to 2-0 on the season, while the Eagles slipped to 0-1 in their season opener.

“We got off to a slow start in the first half and Winthrop did a great job against us,” Carolina head coach Mark Berson said. “As the game went on, we found our rhythm and created more attacking chances. I was proud to come away with a shutout against a Winthrop team that I think is going to be very good this season.”

After a scoreless first half, sophomore Ayo Akinsete gave the Gamecocks the lead in the 74th minute of play. Freshman Sebastian Lindholm crossed the ball to the front post and Akinsete headed it into the back of the net from six yards out. Akinsete led the Gamecocks in scoring a year ago and today’s goal was his first of the season.

Just minutes later at the 76:52 mark, the Eagles were called for a foul inside the 18-yard box, awarding South Carolina a penalty kick attempt. Junior Eric Szeszycki buried the shot and South Carolina went ahead, 2-0, for the final margin.

“Eric was a tireless worker for us today in the midfield,” Berson said. “I though it was fitting that he scored the penalty kick for us.”

Eight of Carolina’s 11 shots were on goal as Winthrop goalie Steven Winton
had to make six saves in the game. Sophomore goalie Brad Guzan made four saves and posted his ninth career shutout for the Gamecocks.

“Brad did a great job today,” Berson said. “He was only called upon to make four saves, but he directed the defense very well. Our back four, Ryan Leeton, Greg Reece, Makan Hislop and Ramon Paracat, were very solid on defense.”

The Gamecocks return to action this weekend as they host the adidas/South Carolina Gamecock Classic. Bucknell and College of Charleston will kick off the event at Stone Stadium at 5 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 10. South Carolina will take on Portland in the nightcap at 7:30 p.m. Play continues on Sunday, Sept. 12, with Portland meeting College of Charleston at Noon, and the Gamecocks facing Bucknell at 2:30 p.m.