In a thrilling match, the Gardner-Webb Runnin’ Bulldogs secured a 2-1 victory against USC Upstate, extending their unbeaten streak to eight games. This match took place on Saturday at the Spartanburg, South Carolina, field.
Key Match Details
- Date: October 21
- Location: Spartanburg, South Carolina
- Gardner-Webb Record: 11 wins, 1 loss, 2 draws
- USC Upstate Record: 4 wins, 9 losses, 1 draw
Game Highlights
The match began dramatically when USC Upstate’s Oskar Kaufmann scored just 26 seconds in. This early goal shocked Gardner-Webb but did not deter them.
In the sixth minute, Gardner-Webb equalized with a goal from sophomore Samson Kpardeh, marking his fifth of the season. Following this, the Runnin’ Bulldogs took control of the game.
Franco Ocnana scored his third goal of the season in the 19th minute, delivering a precise shot from the top of the box after receiving an assist from Kpardeh. This goal put Gardner-Webb ahead 2-1.
Defensive Efforts
Senior goalkeeper Alan Horrocks was instrumental in maintaining the lead. He made five crucial saves, showcasing his skills under pressure.
Graduate midfielder Robbie Lyons led the match with five shots. Freshman forward Javan Ochieng contributed four shots to the team’s total.
Statistics Overview
| Statistics | Gardner-Webb | USC Upstate |
|---|---|---|
| Total Shots | 21 | 12 |
| Shots on Goal | 7 | 6 |
| Corner Kicks | 6 | N/A |
Upcoming Match
The Runnin’ Bulldogs are set to host High Point on October 25, at Greene-Harbison Stadium. This promising rematch is a replay of last year’s Big South Tournament Championship, which Gardner-Webb won 2-1. The kickoff for this much-anticipated game is at 6 PM.
