November 13, 1999

FURMAN MEN'S SOCCER TOPS RADFORD 1-0;

EARNS BID TO NCAA TOURNAMENT

GREENVILLE -- The nine members of Furman's senior class will finally get the chance to showcase their talent in the NCAA Tournament as Furman earned an automatic bid to the 1999 Men's College Cup with a 1-0 victory over Radford in an NCAA play-in match at Eugene Stone Soccer Stadium on Saturday night.

Matt Goldsmith's goal just 26 seconds into the second half proved to be all the fourth-ranked Paladins needed to earn their first NCAA Tournament berth sice 1993. For this senior class, it was the culmination of four years of success and hard work after just barely missing the NCAA Tournament each of the last three seasons.

"This win means so much to the nine of us," said Furman senior Seth Marks. "This is what we have worked for all season. We wanted to get to this game and win it, then see what we can do in the tournament. I don't think there is any limit on what we can accomplish."

Furman will learn its draw Monday night at 9 p.m., during the NCAA Selection Show. The Paladins, ranked fourth by Soccer America and sixth in the NSCAA poll, are hoping for one of the top eight seeds, which would give Furman at least two home games in Eugene Stone Soccer Stadium. The first match would be played next weekend.

Radford almost saw its incredible postseason run continue as the Highlanders played the Paladins tight. The score was even at 0-0 at halftime with each team only taking two shots. Furman opened the second half with intensity as Goldsmith scored his fourth goal of the season. The play was set up as John Barry Nusum crossed a ball to Clint Hill right in front of the goal box. Hill, with his back to the goal, dropped the ball to Goldsmith, who rifled it into the back of the net from 10 yards out.

"I am glad we've finally earned our way into the playoffs," said Furman head coach Doug Allison, who will be making his first NCAA Tournament appearance as a head coach. "I think our guys are up for the challenge and now it is time to take care of business in the playoffs."

Furman improves its best-ever record to 19-1-1. Radford falls to 5-11-4 on the season.

Scoring:

FU - Matt Goldmsith (Clint Hill, John Barry Nusum) 45:26

Shots On Goal: Furman 6; Radford 4.

Corner Kicks: Furman 2; Radford 3.

Saves: Furman 0; Radford 1.

Fouls: Furman 14; Radford 16.