Gamecocks win in opener

South Carolina defeated Coastal Carolina 31-7 on Saturday, September 2, 2023 in Conway, SC during a pre-season scrimmage.

Generally, both sides played starters for two 30-minute halves. Reserves played the final two halves with the Gamecock taking that contest 54-0. Winger Nick DuBois scored the Gamecocks’ first try just three minutes into the contest.

Five minutes later, the Chanticleers tied the game 7-7 after a successful conversion. From there, USC controlled most of possession but struggled with first half defense and penalties. Trys by Grant Howard (8-man), Grant Ruhlen (flyhalf) staked USC to a 19-7 lead at half-time.

After the break, fullback Andrew Reese booted a highlight 30-meter grubber kick into space, which he caught and ran into the try zone. Dubois scored his second try with 15 minutes remaining as both sides were substituting A-side reserves.

While the USC reserves struggled with offensive cohesion early during the B-side game, the Gamecocks regained composure and raced past Coastal 54-0. USC traveled with 58 players and managed to get each some playing time.

Senior All-American 8-man Grant Howard and freshman center Michale Dostillio earned man-of-match honors for A-side. Freshmen Gavin Curran (flanker) and Jack Gallagher (center) were named man-of-match for the reserves game.