University of South Carolina Aiken head men's soccer coach Ike Ofoje was hired prior to the 1996 season. His first test as a Pacer was on August 31, 1996 against Francis Marion.

USC Aiken tied the Patriots with a goal in the 83^rd minute of play for the 2-2 draw, but Ofoje was still looking for his first win at the helm of the program.

The squad played an extremely tough slate to open his career. After the home contest against FMU, USC Aiken went on the road for matches at Georgia Southern, Barry and Eckerd. After a 10-day break, the squad traveled to Augusta State and The Citadel. Despite valiant efforts by the team, the was 0-5-1.

On Sunday, Sept. 22, 1996, Ofoje's team hosted Martin Methodist. After a scoreless first half, USC Aiken got on the board with a goal in the 63^rd minute. Eric Mora found Danny King for the 1-0 lead.

At the 67:37 mark, the Pacers increased their margin to 2-0 when Zach Craddock found Mora, who promptly blasted a shot past the keeper for what turned out to be the game-winning goal. Martin Methodist scored in the 79^th minute, but USC Aiken held on for the 2-1 victory.

In goal, Dave Joyce played all 90 minutes and stopped 10 shots.

The victory marked the first for Ofoje.

Original Recap

Box Score

Week 7 - Memorable Moments In USC Aiken Athletics History - Ike Ofoje Picks Up First Win As A Pacer

Week 6 - Memorable Moments In USC Aiken Athletics History - Baseball's Ninth Inning Comeback Sends Pacers Past No. 1 Nova Southeastern

Week 5 - Memorable Moments In USC Aiken Athletics History - Women's Soccer's Late Surge Produces Tie With No. 10 Wingate

Week 4 - Memorable Moments In USC Aiken Athletics History - USC Aiken Captures Three Consecutive National Championships

Week 3 - Memorable Moments In USC Aiken Athletics History -  Men's Basketball Makes Historic Run To Final Four 

Week 2 - Memorable Moments In USC Aiken Athletics History - Volleyball Captures NCAA Southeast Region Championship

Week 1 - Memorable Moments In USC Aiken Athletics History - Softball Makes Run To PBC Tournament Championship