Clemson, S.C. -- Senior Debola Ogunseye headed in the game-winning goal in the 89th minute to lift Furman to a 1-0 victory over Clemson in non-conference men’s soccer action on Tuesday evening at Historic Riggs Field as the Paladins and Tigers celebrated the 75th anniversary of the schools playing the first soccer match in state history.

The win, Furman’s first at Riggs Field, improved the Paladins to 6-6-2 on the season.  It also marked the first time Furman has downed Clemson in back-to-back seasons.  Prior to kickoff, Clemson and Furman commemorated the first match in state history which took place between the schools on February 14, 1934, as Furman defeated Clemson 1-0 at Manley Field in Greenville.

“It was a hard fought game against Clemson as usual and definitely a team win,” said Furman coach Doug Allison.  “  It was great to get the shutout and hopefully we can use the momentum from this game to finish strong in Southern Conference play.”
With less than two minutes remaining in regulation, Eric Cobleigh delivered a bending cross to the top of the 18-yard box.  Coleton Henning headed the ball forward to Ogunseye at the top of the six-yard box and the senior directed his header past Clemson keeper Joseph Bendik with 1:08 left to play.

The Paladins controlled much of the possession over the first hour of play, but had to turn away several Clemson shots during the final 30 minutes.  Goalkeeper Alec Kann notched four saves in a 20-minute span of the second half to keep the game knotted at 0-0 before Ogunseye delivered the go-ahead tally with his sixth goal of the season.

Furman outshot the Tigers 19-11, including 9-4 in shots on goal.  Bendik finished with eight saves for the Tigers.

The Paladins return to SoCon play on Saturday when they host Elon at Stone Soccer Stadium.  Kickoff is set for 7 p.m.