Box Score MORROW, Ga. – The University of South Carolina Aiken men's soccer team scored a pair of late goals, completing the comeback in the 2-1 victory over Erskine.
The Pacers are now 1-1 on the season.
After a scoreless first half, head coach Ike Ofoje's team fell behind in the 59th minute on a goal by Jake Lochstampfor. However, USC Aiken was relentless in trying to gain the equalizer.
In the 75th minute, Patrick Wiedemann rocketed a shot that fooled the keeper before crossing the end-line, knotting the contest at 1-1.
After a save by Andre Bernardini at the 76:25 mark, Ofoje's team pushed forward. In the 78th minute, senior Dean Smith blasted a shot that sailed just wide of the frame. Erskine matriculated the ball down the pitch and had a shot on goal at the 79:35 mark, but Bernardini was up to the challenge.
The Pacers quickly went on the offensive and earned a corner kick 16 seconds after the save. Jarrel Smalls managed to get a shot out of the possession, but he was unable to find the back of the net.
In the 86th minute, Ryan Dwyer launched a shot that was saved, but the squad continued applying pressure. In the 89th minute, USC Aiken broke through. Smalls maintained possession and broke through the defense. Heading down the center of the field, Smalls sent the ball past the keeper for what turned out to be the game-winning goal.
Erskine had one last chance, but Grant Dickey's shot was wide left with seven seconds remaining in the contest.
For the contest, USC Aiken held a 15-12 advantage in shots, including a 7-4 margin in the opening 45 minutes. Ofoje's team earned seven corner kicks compared to just two by Erskine.
Bernardini played all 90 minutes between the pipes. He stopped six shots in the contest.
The Pacers return to action Wednesday as part of Pacer Fandemonium. USC Aiken hosts Lenoir-Rhyne at 7 p.m.
