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SPARTANBURG, S.C. — Wofford’s men’s soccer team showed resilience but fell short in two tightly contested matches last week, extending a difficult stretch as Southern Conference play approaches.
Wofford comeback falls short at USC Upstate
On Tuesday night, the Terriers fell 3-2 at cross-town rival USC Upstate after a disastrous opening 15 minutes. The Spartans struck twice in a 90-second span as Vitalis Takawira Jr. finished a rebound and then curled in a right-footed shot to double the lead. Moments before halftime, Tolu Fabamifobee’s strike from the top of the box made it 3-0.
Wofford responded after the break. Samuel Byron netted his second goal of the season with a low finish in the 58th minute, and Nick Dyer pulled the Terriers closer on a header off a set piece. Despite several late pushes forward, Wofford couldn’t find the equalizer.
“We created chances and fought until the end, but the start hurt us,” head coach Joel Tyson said. “We have to be sharper from the opening whistle.”
Late goal spoils rally vs. Campbell at Snyder Field
Back home Saturday night, the Terriers again found themselves chasing early. Campbell scored twice in the opening 25 minutes, including a header off a deflection that slipped past goalkeeper Jackson Upton.
Wofford’s attack came alive just before halftime when Nathan Simes converted a penalty to cut the deficit to 2-1. Byron then struck again early in the second half, sliding a finish inside the far post to level the match at 2-2.
But the Camels regained momentum in the closing stages. In the 82nd minute, Campbell’s late strike put the visitors back on top, and Wofford’s furious push in the final minutes came up empty in a 3-2 defeat.
Byron and Simes lead Terriers’ attack
Byron’s scoring run stood out, as the sophomore forward recorded goals in both matches. Simes also showed poise from the spot, converting his second penalty of the season. The Terriers’ late surges demonstrated grit, but defensive lapses early in matches continued to cost them.
Wofford slipped to 3-5 overall with the two losses, including three straight defeats at home. The Terriers have allowed multiple goals in four consecutive matches.
“We know the effort is there,” Tyson said. “It’s about consistency and making sure we don’t put ourselves in holes.”
Terriers look ahead to Georgia State and UNCG
The Terriers travel to Georgia State on Tuesday before returning to Spartanburg to host UNC Greensboro in Southern Conference play Saturday. Tyson’s side will look to tighten its defense and build on Byron’s attacking form as they search for momentum heading into league action.
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