Stannard Lifts Highlanders Over Winthrop

RADFORD, Va.--Freshman David Stannard's goal in the 86th minute lifted Radford to a 2-1 comeback win over Winthrop in a Big South Conference men's soccer match Wednesday at Patrick D. Cupp Memorial Stadium. The victory, RU's third straight, lifts the Highlanders into sole possession of first place in the League standings. (Box Score)

Down 1-0 at halftime, Radford scored twice in the second half to earn the win and improve to 3-2-1 in the Big South and 5-3-3 overall. The Eagles, who suffered their first Conference loss, fall to 2-1 in the League and 4-7 overall.

Winthrop scored first when sophomore Micah Usry served a high ball into the box. Senior Lloyd Afriyie took the pass and fired an open look into the corner of the net at the 19:25 mark in the first half. The Eagles held the one goal edge through halftime.

The Highlanders tied the game on a header by junior Adam Pahl at 73:58 in the second half. Stannard and sophomore Taylor Rowe were credited with assists after Rowe headed a cross from Stannard to Pahl.

Both teams had several opportunities to take the lead with open shots on goal, but both goalkeepers made key saves to turn away the offensive push. Radford keeper junior Omar Zinoveev stopped seven shots for the game while senior Steve Winton repelled five shots for Winthrop.

Stannard’s game-winner came on an unassisted direct kick at 86:06 from about 20 yards out following a Winthrop foul.

Winthrop fired 13 shots and Radford had 11. Winthrop tallied 10 corner kicks and 17 fouls while RU had six corner kicks and 13 fouls.

Radford will head to George Mason Sunday for a 1:00 pm non-conference game. Winthrop remains in Conference, hosting VMI Saturday at 1:00 pm.