ROCK HILL, S.C. - Winthrop (1-8-0) earned their first win of the season, defeating Radford (2-7-2) by a score of 3-1 on Saturday afternoon at Eagle Field. The match saw both teams create multiple scoring opportunities before the Eagles pulled away in the second half.
The scoring opened in dramatic fashion when Dax Booth put Radford ahead in the 47th minute with a low drive to the right corner. Winthrop responded quickly through Ethan Marks, who equalized in the 48th minute. The Eagles then took control with two more goals in the final ten minutes of play to secure their first victory of the campaign.
The first half was marked by intense midfield battles, with both teams struggling to find the breakthrough. Radford's Lukas Kuca tested the Winthrop defense with a blocked shot in the 7th minute, while Jayco Almendarez Castro came close for the Eagles with a low effort in the 21st minute. The visitors held a slight edge in possession, earning six corner kicks before the break compared to Winthrop's three.
The second half transformed into a more open affair after the early exchange of goals. Radford's Karim Nlamu threatened with multiple attempts, including a close shot in the 67th minute. Winthrop's tactical adjustments proved decisive, with Bernardo Pacheco and Diomario Adamson creating consistent pressure on the Radford defense. The Eagles' persistence paid off with their go-ahead goal, followed by an insurance tally that sealed the victory.
The final statistics reflected the competitive nature of the match, with Radford recording 14 shot attempts to Winthrop's 10. The Highlanders earned 11 corner kicks to Winthrop's 6, though the Eagles proved more clinical with their opportunities, putting 5 shots on target compared to Radford's 4. The physical contest saw four yellow cards issued, including cautions to Radford's Donovan McClellan and Carter McClain.
Individual performances shaped the outcome, with Winthrop's Ethan Marks proving influential before receiving a yellow card in the 76th minute. Radford's Karim Nlamu was active throughout, recording multiple shot attempts before being substituted in the 77th minute. Bernardo Pacheco's creative presence in midfield helped Winthrop maintain pressure during crucial periods.
Tactically, Winthrop's second-half adjustments proved decisive. The Eagles' press forced Radford into uncomfortable positions, leading to turnovers in dangerous areas. The Highlanders' initial success with their high pressing system gradually gave way to Winthrop's more direct approach, particularly after the hour mark.
The victory marks a potential turning point for Winthrop, who had struggled through their first nine matches of the season. For Radford, the loss extends their winless streak to four matches, highlighting their ongoing offensive challenges despite creating numerous opportunities.
Both teams made multiple substitutions throughout the match, with Winthrop's changes proving particularly effective. The Eagles' defensive unit, anchored by their backline and complemented by timely midfield pressure, limited Radford's clear chances despite the visitors' statistical advantages in several categories.
Looking ahead, Winthrop will aim to build on this momentum when they travel to face ETSU on October 8, while Radford returns home to host Gardner-Webb on October 11, seeking to snap their losing streak.