COLUMBIA, South Carolina (Nov. 1, 2019) - The FIU men's soccer team was handed its first defeat of the 2019 season on Friday evening, as the Panthers fell to South Carolina on the road by a score of 1-0.

FIU now falls to 9-1-5 on the season and 4-1-1 in Conference USA, while South Carolina improves to 7-8-2 and 2-5 in conference play.

The Panthers and Gamecocks were knotted up at halftime after a strong defensive effort by both teams. FIU and USC each logged four shots-on-goal in the first period but were unable to find the back of the net, as the two squads entered the locker room with the score tied at 0-0.

USC was able to get on the board shortly after the intermission as Brian Banahan scored for the Gamecocks in the 51st minute. In search of an equalizer, the Panthers ramped up their attack and dominated the shot margin 14-2 during the second half. FIU saw several chances late in the match when the Panthers poured on nine shots between the 75th and 85th minute-mark, but the comeback attempt came up short as the Gamecocks staved off the attack.

Andrew Booth led with a game-high three shots-on-goal, while Daniel Gagliardi posted five saves in the contest. 

The loss marks the first for FIU since Nov. 7, 2018, and only the second time the Panthers have been shutout this season. 

FIU still remains in the hunt for a conference title, as a win over Marshall next Friday would clinch the league crown for the Panthers. 

UP NEXT
The Panthers will close out the 2019 regular season in front of their home crowd next Friday, Nov. 8, when they host No. 20 Marshall at FIU Soccer Stadium. Kickoff against the Thundering Herd is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET.

SOCIAL MEDIA
Fans are encouraged to follow the Panthers on Twitter (@FIUMensSoccer) and become a fan on Facebook (Facebook.com/FIUMensSoccer) for all the latest Men's Soccer news. Follow all of FIU's18 athletic teams on Twitter (@FIUAthletics), Facebook (Facebook.com/FIUSports), YouTube (FIUPanthers), and Instagram (FIUAthletics).