Shutout ends Gamecocks’ season in NCAA Tournament
The highest scoring team in South Carolina program history had its offense disappear at the worst time.
The Gamecocks fell 2-0 to UNC Wilmington Friday night in the first round of the NCAA Tournament, marking only the second time all season USC was shut out. South Carolina ends the season with a 12-5-3 record, while the Seahawks advance to face Virginia in the second round.
“Our offense has been tremendous this year. We have scored more goals this year than any in program history,” USC coach Shelley Smith said. “Our offense has been tremendous, and tonight you saw where when you don’t finish those chances when you have some, it’s hard to win games.”
UNCW set the tone early on with a goal 11:59 into the match. Katrina Guillou scored on an assist from Maddie McCormick to give the Seahawks an early lead. The Gamecocks had a chance to tie as the first half was winding down, but leading scorer Savannah McCaskill had her shot saved by Carolyn Huddy.
USC controlled possession for much of the second half and had several opportunities but wasn’t able to capitalize. USC outshot UNCW 12-11, but it didn’t show up on the scoreboard.
“We had it in our minds that we were going to get the goal whether it was in the last five minutes or the first five minutes,” junior midfielder Chelsea Drennan said. “We created a lot of opportunities but we couldn’t find the back of the net.”
The Seahawks put the game away in the 85th minute as Lauren Nalevaiko scored on a header to give UNCW a 2-0 lead.
“I really thought we would get the tying goal. I really didn’t ever think we were in a position to lose that game until that second goal happened,” Smith said. “A lot of credit to Wilmington. They came out here and battled and fought tonight and came away with a victory. They deserved to win that match.”
Despite the loss, South Carolina had a solid season, earning an eighth NCAA Tournament bid in nine years and hosting a home NCAA Tournament game for the third consecutive year.
South Carolina loses eight seniors off of this year’s team, including goalkeeper Caroline Kelly and three other starters.
“I’m disappointed for the seniors. It was a tremendous class,” Smith said. “We’ll really miss them. I’m disappointed for the entire team because they really wanted it, but it just didn’t happen tonight.”