Gamecocks Earn Draw Against Ranked NC State
Carolina remains unbeaten in overtime matches this season
COLUMBIA, S.C. —- South Carolina men’s soccer earned a 0-0 draw against No. 23 NC State on Tuesday night at Stone Stadium. The two teams combined for 20 shots in 110 minutes of action in the two overtime periods as Carolina remained unbeaten in extra-time matches this season.
With the result, Carolina moved to 5-6-2 while NC State’s record slid to 7-3-2.
“It was a tough, gritty effort from our guys,” head coach Mark Berson said. “The guys were well organized, had a good plan and they stuck to it. We had a couple decent chances. Obviously, they’re a good team and they got their chances. But I think this gives a lot to build on going forward as we head into a big conference match this weekend.
After a first half that saw the Wolfpack out-shoot the Gamecocks 4-1, Carolina came out of halftime with a renewed sense of poise and determination as both teams earned four shots in the scoreless-second period to send the match to overtime.
“The crowd support was unbelievable tonight,” Berson said of the announced crowd of 1,506. “The fans were incredible. It was a great feeling to be back at home and to be in front of our fans. I want to thank everyone. The students, the Carolina soccer community. It was great to have everyone behind us tonight and the players felt it.”
While the Wolfpack held a 7-0 advantage in shots during the two overtimes, South Carolina held strong on the defensive end as Nick Brady, in just his second start for the Gamecocks, earned two key saves in the second extra-time period to help the Gamecocks earn the well-fought tie.
“Our guys are pretty tough,” Berson said. “Sometimes you’ve got to be smart and tough and we’re working on that part. We’re gaining experience. This is a young team and we’re working hard. Tonight, I thought the guys executed things very well and we need to take this and build on it going forward.”
On the night, NC State out-shot Carolina 15-5 and had a 7-2 advantage in corners while both teams took nine fouls. Alongside Brady in goal, Frano Buhovac, Dylan Bartel and Jared Gulden went the distance in the match.
Once again, fans can get the best deal in town for season tickets. Tickets are $25 for adults and $10 for youth and get you into ALL 20 soccer matches at Stone Stadium this fall. To purchase, visit gamecocksonline.com/soccertix.
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