HUNTINGTON, WEST VIRGINIA - David de la Vibona needed just 30 minutes and 34 seconds to write the story of Marshall's dominance, slotting home the opening goal and setting the tone for a 4-0 thrashing of South Carolina before 2,147 fans at Joan C. Edwards Stadium, a result that continued the Thundering Herd's five-match winning streak.
The early breakthrough set the tone for what became a defensive chess match, with Marshall dictating the pace and South Carolina struggling to create clear chances. The Gamecocks managed just one shot on target across 90 minutes, a damning statistic that encapsulates their offensive struggles against a Marshall backline that marshaled their defensive resources effectively.
Marshall's attacking prowess was on full display as Gabriel Stevanato doubled the lead in the 36th minute, assisted by Yasha Schaerer's incisive through ball that split the South Carolina defense. The Thundering Herd's confidence grew with each passing minute, and their third goal came just 47 seconds into the second half through Rai Pinto, who finished clinically to make it 3-0.
The rout was completed when Carl Romberg scored his first goal for Marshall in the 76th minute, tapping home Takahiro Fujita's perfectly weighted cross. The substitution of Fujita for Marshall's regular winger proved to be a masterstroke, as his delivery from the left flank caused the South Carolina defense constant problems.
Throughout the match, Marshall controlled the tempo, outshooting South Carolina 14-2 and earning eight corner kicks to their opponents' four. The statistical ledger reveals a tale of dominance, with Marshall holding a commanding 5-1 advantage in shots on target. South Carolina's goalkeeper made just one save, while Marshall's custodian didn't need to make a single stop from an on-target effort.
The victory represents more than three points for Marshall; it cements their position as one of the top teams in the conference, with an 8-1-4 record overall and a 5-1 mark in conference play. Their five-match winning streak is a testament to their growing strength and cohesion. Looking ahead, Marshall faces Old Dominion next, a team they'll need to continue their defensive solidity against.
For South Carolina, the loss extends their losing streak to two games and leaves them struggling in conference play with a 1-3-2 record. Their 7-6-2 overall record belies their difficulties in front of goal, as evidenced by their meager shot total against Marshall. The Gamecocks face Coastal Carolina next, a match they'll need to approach differently if they hope to turn their season around.
The afternoon belonged to Marshallβand specifically to their attacking unit, who showed ruthless efficiency in front of goal. As the Thundering Herd looks to continue their winning ways, their next challenge awaits in the form of Old Dominion.
Key Players:
David de la Vibona (Marshall) β Slotted home the opening goal in the 30th minute, setting the tone for Marshall's dominant performance with a composed finish.
Gabriel Stevanato (Marshall) β Doubled Marshall's lead with a well-timed finish, capitalizing on Yasha Schaerer's incisive through ball that dissected the South Carolina defense.
Rai Pinto (Marshall) β Scored Marshall's third goal just 47 seconds into the second half, showcasing the team's clinical finishing and relentless pressure.
Takahiro Fujita (Marshall) β Provided the assist for Carl Romberg's goal with a perfectly weighted cross from the left flank, demonstrating his impact from the substitutes' bench.