Box Score GREENWOOD, S.C. – After falling behind early, the University of South Carolina Aiken women's soccer team had a tremendous comeback attempt that fell just short in a well-played contest at Lander in a league affair.
The Pacers now stand at 4-5 on the season and 1-3 in the Peach Belt Conference.
The Bearcats attacked early, registering the first four shots of the contest, but the defense for USC Aiken did not allow any of the attempts to be on frame.
The Pacers broke through in the 20th minute when Caroline Gillespie powered home a shot that was just wide of the goal. Less than a minute later, the squad got the ball back but Hannah Allison's shot sailed just past the frame.
In the 22nd minute, Aubrey Danielson nearly gave the Pacers a 1-0 lead, but her shot was just inches off the target as it hit the post. USC Aiken earned a corner kick, but was unable to turn it into a goal.
Lander broke the scoreless tie in the 30th minute of action.
Head coach Sue Vodicka's team went on the attack once again. Megan Smits and Joi Chrishon each took shots, but both were unable to find the back of the net. USC Aiken tallied three more shots in the period, but Lander's keeper was able to keep two of Smits' shots and one by Akeyla Furbert from getting past her.
The Bearcats were credited with a second goal in the 41st minute, making it a 2-0 contest at the break.
Vodicka's squad nearly trimmed the deficit in half in the 54th minute of play, but Jenna Beauregard's shot was saved.
The Pacers broke through in the 77th minute when Smits found Danielson, who promptly one-timed it past the keeper to make the score 2-1.
Beauregard and Olivia Stiltner each had shots in the closing minutes, but both were saved.
For the match, USC Aiken totaled 15 shots, nine of which were on goal. The team also held a 2-1 advantage in corner kicks.
The Pacers return to action Saturday at 5 p.m., when the team hosts Georgia Southwestern.
