November 16, 1997
GREENVILLE, SC -- Charleston Southern's Bert Williams scored three minutes into the third overtime period as the Buccaneers downed Furman 2-1 in an NCAA play-in match Sunday at Eugene Stone Stone Stadium. With the win, Charleston Southern receives an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament.
Furman and Charleston Southern played to a scoreless tie in regulation as a possible Charleston Southern goal was called back as time expired in regulation. Furman played a man up for most of the match as the Buccaneers' Sheron Simmons was flagged with a red card at the 33:36 mark in the first half.
Furman captured the lead early in the first overtime period as Ryan Higginbotham scored his fifth goal in the last four matches. The play was set up as Seth Marks crossed the ball and Pete Santora headed it to Higginbotham who finished the play.
Three minutes into the second overtime period, Charleston Southern scored on a penalty kick to tie the score at 1-1. The match then proceded to sudden death overtime as Williams scored the game-winner.
"This was a disapointing loss," said Furman head coach Doug Allison "I feel bad for our players, especially the seniors. We worked hard all year and this was a tough way to go out. I wish Charleston Southern the best of luck this weekend."
With the win, Charleston Southern improves to 16-4-1, while the Paladins drop to 14-6. Charleston Southern will receive an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament, with selections to be announced Monday at 5 p.m.
Scoring
Shots On Goal: Furman - 15; Charleston Southern - 17.
Corner Kicks: Furman - 7; Charleston Southern - 4.
Saves: Furman - 8; Charleston Southern - 5.
Fouls: Furman - 23; Charleston Southern - 30.