The Coastal Carolina University men’s soccer team lost 2-1 against the University of South Carolina (USC) Gamecocks on Sept. 29 at the CCU soccer complex.
The Chanticleers entered the game with a 2-5-0 record, looking to maintain their strong home form and remain undefeated against the Gamecocks at home. The Gamecocks, holding a 5-1-2 record, aimed to bounce back from a poor start in the Sun Belt Conference at 0-1, falling to Marshall University.
Despite the setback, CCU’s coach Shaun Docking remained optimistic, noting that his team outshot their opponents and had a significant advantage in corner kicks during the second half.
“We dominated the half. We had some good chances in the game, and I was really delighted about the performance tonight. I thought we looked stronger than them in the second half,” Docking said.
Junior Evan Howard, who netted the Chanticleers’ only goal from a penalty kick 87 minutes in, echoed his coach’s sentiments.
“It was a tough game, but I think we played well. We deserved way more out of the game,” Howard said.
Historically, the Gamecocks have struggled in Conway, having never secured a win there, with two ties to their name. Meanwhile, the Chanticleers hold the longest series win streak against USC, having bested the Gamecocks in six consecutive matches from 2002 to 2014.
Midfielder Alejandro Velazquez-Lopez led South Carolina to an early lead three minutes into the match. Midfielder Ethan Ballek scored his eighth goal of the year in 84 minutes, putting an end to the Chanticleers’ hopes of drawing even. Ballek’s goal showcased his talent in the Gamecocks’ attacking lineup as his strike marked his fourth consecutive game with a goal.
Fans viewed standout performances from Doug Hainer, the top scorer for the Chanticleers, along with goalkeeper Tristian Himes, a transfer from Columbia. Forward Harrison Myring and Ballek were the key Gamecock players to watch, previously tied with six goals this season.
USC called for discipline, however, as the Gamecocks received three cautions to the Chanticleers’ one.
The Chanticleers will compete in their next home game against Georgia Southern University on Oct. 4 with a 7 p.m. kick off.
