Winthrop Women’s Soccer Edges Gardner-Webb on a Late Goal
Winthrop University’s women’s soccer team came away with a hard-earned 1-0 victory over Gardner-Webb on Saturday afternoon at Eagle Field, scoring the game-winning goal in the 83rd minute. For fans across Fort Mill, Tega Cay, Rock Hill, and the greater South Charlotte region, it was a satisfying finish for a program that continues to compete in the Big South Conference.
The Eagles (5-9-1 overall, 2-4 Big South) broke through at 82:50 when Cordelia McIntosh found the net off an assist from Monssi Avila-Gutierrez. The goal secured Winthrop’s second Big South Conference win of the season.
Key Details From the Match
Here is a quick look at what happened on Saturday:
- Final score: Winthrop 1, Gardner-Webb 0
- Venue: Eagle Field
- Game-winning goal: Cordelia McIntosh, 83rd minute (82:50)
- Assist: Monssi Avila-Gutierrez
- Winthrop’s record: 5-9-1 overall, 2-4 in the Big South
A one-goal game that stays scoreless until the final minutes is the kind of contest that keeps everyone in the stands focused until the last whistle. The late finish gave Winthrop a meaningful result in conference play, where every match counts toward the standings.
Why a Late Goal Matters
Scoring in the 83rd minute means the Eagles had to stay patient and keep pushing through a tight, defensive match. Goals that come this late often reflect a team’s fitness, focus, and belief. McIntosh and Avila-Gutierrez connected at exactly the right moment, turning a stalemate into a win.
Where Winthrop Stands in the Big South
With the victory, Winthrop improves to 2-4 in Big South Conference play. The Eagles’ overall record of 5-9-1 shows a season with its ups and downs, but wins like this one can build momentum as conference play continues. For a team still fighting for positioning, a second conference win is a valuable step.
Community Impact for South Charlotte and the York County Area
Winthrop University sits in Rock Hill, and its athletic programs are a point of pride for many families in nearby communities. Residents of Fort Mill, Tega Cay, Indian Land, and Pineville often follow Winthrop teams, and college athletics offer an affordable, family-friendly way to spend a weekend afternoon.
- Support local student-athletes who train and compete close to home
- Enjoy a relaxed, small-venue atmosphere at Eagle Field
- Introduce kids and youth soccer players to the college level of the game
- Connect with neighbors who share a love of local sports
Youth soccer is popular throughout the South Charlotte area, from Ballantyne to Waxhaw. Seeing college players execute a game-winning goal can be a great source of inspiration for young athletes in local clubs and school programs.
Background and Context
The Big South Conference features a range of programs across the region, and matchups between schools like Winthrop and Gardner-Webb are part of the conference’s regional rivalry fabric. With both teams drawing from nearby communities in the Carolinas, these games often feel personal for fans who live and work around the area.
Winthrop’s record this season reflects a competitive but challenging schedule. Wins in conference play, particularly in close matches decided late, are important moments for any team building toward the end of the season.
How to Follow the Eagles
If you want to keep up with Winthrop women’s soccer, the best approach is to check the university’s athletics website and official social media channels for schedules, scores, and updates. Match details, including dates, times, and ticket information, are published by the athletics department, so always confirm directly before heading out to a game.
Tips for Attending a Game
- Check the official schedule before you go to confirm date and start time
- Bring a blanket or chair if seating is limited
- Dress for the weather, since fall matches can start warm and cool off quickly
- Bring the kids, as college games are a fun way to introduce them to the sport
Conclusion
Winthrop’s 1-0 win over Gardner-Webb was a classic late-game finish, with Cordelia McIntosh scoring in the 83rd minute off an assist from Monssi Avila-Gutierrez. The result lifts the Eagles to 5-9-1 overall and 2-4 in the Big South, and it gives the team a second conference win to build on. For South Charlotte area sports fans, it is one more reason to keep an eye on Winthrop women’s soccer as the season continues.
Have you been to a Winthrop women’s soccer game? We would love to hear about your experience. Stay with South Charlotte Report for more local news, sports, and community updates from Fort Mill, Tega Cay, Indian Land, Waxhaw, Pineville, and Ballantyne.


