AIKEN, S.C. – The University of South Carolina Aiken men's soccer team lost a 4-1 decision against No. 11 Clayton State Wednesday evening.

The Pacers are now 1-6-1 overall and 1-4 in league action. The Lakers are now 9-1 on the year and 5-0 against PBC foes.

Head coach Ike Ofoje's team pushed the Lakers to the fullest in the match. In the first half, USC Aiken was the aggressor, pushing toward the offensive third of the pitch on numerous occasions. The Pacers controlled the midfield as well, keeping the nationally-ranked team at bay.

After Clayton State rocketed a shot early in the match that Cason Donahue promptly turned away, neither team was able to post another attempt for over 20 minutes. During that time, Ofoje's group performed brilliantly.

Donahue was up for the challenge, turning away a pair of shots near the midway point of the half. Then, Michael Sokolik gained possession of the ball from 40 yards out. He dribbled down the right sideline and ripped an attempt the keeper was able to save.

Late in the half, the ball was played toward the top of the box. USC Aiken was whistled for a foul just inside the box, setting up a penalty kick the Lakers converted for a 1-0 edge.

Clayton State was able to find the back of the net in the 64^th minute but the Pacers continued to battle. Then, at the 73:43 mark, Jose Rabadan found Fabian Avila, who rocketed a shot past the keeper to make it 2-1.

After a wild play in the box, the Lakers went up 3-1 after an own goal at the 75:57 mark. The visitors made it 4-1 in the 84^th minute of action.

For the match, Sokolik had a pair of shots, both of which were on goal. Donahue recorded seven saves in the match.

The Pacers return to action Saturday when they host Shaw at 6 p.m. Live stats and video will be available at PacerSports.com.