Missouri soccer was outclassed Thursday night as it fell to No. 3 South Carolina 2-0 at Walton Stadium. The loss continued Missouri’s Southeastern Conference woes as the Tigers fell to 2-6 in conference play and 6-10-1 overall.

The Gamecocks struck early, jumping ahead 2-0 by the 34th minute. Both South Carolina goals came off corner kicks, the first scored by Grace Fisk and the second by Savannah McCaskill. The early lead allowed South Carolina to sit back defensively, and the Gamecocks suffocated Missouri’s offense. Both of South Carolina’s goals were scored on set piece plays. The Tigers were held to one shot in the first 45 minutes.

The second half was a far more competitive affair as the Tigers produced six shots on goal and had three corner kicks. However, South Carolina’s defense, which allows the fewest goals per game and has had the most shutouts in the SEC, was too much for the Tigers, and Missouri could not break through for a goal.

Head coach Bryan Blitz said South Carolina had “by far” the best defense Mizzou has faced this season.

“They’re No. 1 in the conference for a reason, and I think they’re probably No. 1 in the country after tonight,” Blitz said.

Missouri will play its final road game of the regular season on Sunday, Oct. 22 against Alabama at 6 p.m.

_Edited by Eli Lederman | elederman@themaneater.com_