Clemson United (7-3-1, ACC 2-2) defeated the Winthrop Eagles (2-6-1) 4-1 on Tuesday, Oct. 3, at Historic Riggs Field. The Tigers, now boasting a flawless 6-0 home record, were dominant on both sides of the ball against Winthrop.
The Tigers are no stranger to big wins this year, ranking fourth in the country for goal differential, having outscored their opponents by 19 goals so far.
Although the halftime score was locked at 1-1, the Tigers were in control. The Eagles struck first, with Josh Sczech finding the back of the net in the 32nd minute with a shot that slipped past goalkeeper Joseph Andema. Just five minutes later, midfielder Nathan Richmond netted a crucial equalizer off an assist from Remi Okunlola and Ousmane Sylla.
The second half saw Clemson maintaining its relentless attack and elevating their backline play, as they had 14 shots and did not concede a single one to Winthrop.
Clemson took the lead in the second half when Joran Gerbet unleashed a shot from just outside the 18-yard box, finding the left center of the net beyond the outstretched arms of Winthrop goalkeeper Jack Kilstrom.
Just five minutes later, Clemson defender Enrique Montana III managed to slide a cross through a crowd of defenders to assist Shawn Smart in his first career goal.
Alex Meinhard delivered the final dagger in the 83rd minute, finishing a cross from Jackson Wrobel, extinguishing any hopes for the Eagles.
Winthrop had no response to these four unanswered goals from the Tigers, and Clemson was able to rotate in many of its younger players to provide them with valuable game experience.
Clemson United will look to continue its impressive home form when they next face off against No. 21 Louisville Friday night at 7 p.m. at Historic Riggs Field.