SPARTANBURG, S.C. — Behind another shutout performance from keeper Joseba Incera, and a first-half goal on a gorgeous strike Samuel Schwarz, the Radford men's soccer team took down USC Upstate 1-0 on Saturday evening at Vert Stadium, securing a pivotal Big South Conference win. It marked the second straight conference victory for the Highlanders, and their first road win of the season.

"This was a great road win against one of the top teams in our conference this year," said Radford head coach Chris Barrett. "I am so proud of our team. We played hard and together for the full 90 minutes. This win keeps us in the hunt for a top-four finish and a place in the Big South Tournament. We will enjoy the win tonight and get ready for a tough road game at Longwood on Wednesday."

Despite being heavily outshot, Radford (3-7-1, 2-2 Big South) was able to win thanks to Incera's heroic efforts. The Santurtzi, Spain native made 12 saves on the night, including three in the final 15 minutes that helped stave off a late USC Upstate rally. It was Incera's second consecutive clean sheet and third of the season, after having blanked Winthrop last Wednesday.

The deciding goal of the match came in the 23rd minute. After stealing an errant pass by an Upstate defender, Schwarz gathered the ball in front of the penalty area and launched a beautiful strike with the left foot from near 60 feet out. The ball deflected off the hands of Spartans' keeper Luca Bulfon and snuck under the right side of the crossbar, giving Radford a 1-0 lead.

USC Upstate (2-5-3, 0-1-1) outshot the visitors 25-12, including a 12-4 advantage in shots on net. But in the end, it was the Highlanders defense that stood tall, as they held the Spartans to just one shot attempt over the final six minutes of the match.

Forward Jared Dubose had another productive night, producing a team-high five shots. Schwarz and midfielder Griffin Gyurci also chipped in with two each.

UP NEXT
Radford will continue their quick two-game road trip as they head back up to the Commonwealth to take on Longwood next Wednesday, Oct. 12th. Kickoff is slated for 6 p.m.

FOLLOW RADFORD ATHLETICS
For more information on the Radford men's soccer team, follow @RadfordMSOC on Twitter and Instagram or Radford Men's Soccer on Facebook.