BLUFFTON, South Carolina – The University of South Carolina Beaufort women's soccer team hosted Columbus State on Wednesday afternoon for the first of two consecutive home matches. The Cougars scored early in the second half to take a 1-0 lead and held on for the win over the Sand Sharks for the first home loss of the season.

"We played well again today, we came out set up to try and go win the game, but ultimately couldn't get the result" stated head coach Gary Boughton

With the result, USCB moves to 9-4-2 overall and 3-4-2 in Peach Belt Conference play, while Columbus State is now 8-5-1 overall and 6-2-0 in the league.

"I saw a lot of what we worked on against one of the best teams in the conference. That's what you hope for as a coach. We pick ourselves up and go back at it tomorrow" said coach Gary Boughton.

Goalkeeper Ciazia Powe, was the starting goalkeeper, recording six saves on seven shots. Columbus State held a narrow 12-8 advantage in total shots and 7-3 edge in shots on goal. Izzy Amphlett led USCB offensively with two shots on target.

The opening half was a defensive battle, as both teams created chances but were unable to find the back of the net. Powe came up with a diving save on a Columbus State breakaway early in the first half, then stopped another attempt moments later to keep the game scoreless.

Sophia Willis registered the first shot on goal for the Sand Sharks, but Cougar goalkeeper Heidi Harris made the save to preserve the 0-0 score. USCB's back line continued to hold off Columbus State, forcing a pair of off-target shots as the match remained even heading into halftime.

Columbus State capitalized early in the second half, breaking through in the 48th minute with a goal from Payton Conti for one of three shots in the opening five minutes of the half.

The Sand Sharks nearly equalized five minutes later when a shot hit off the crossbar in the 53rd minute. Powe kept USCB within one with another save in the 71st minute. The Sand Sharks generated late opportunities including three shots and a corner kick but the Cougars' defense held firm to secure the 1-0 victory.

The Sand Sharks return to action on Saturday afternoon, hosting the University of South Carolina Aiken for this years Senior Day game. Kickoff is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. at home on Fnland Field.

Stay tuned to uscbathletics.com and follow Sand Shark Athletics on social media for the latest news, updates, and information.