CLEMSON, South Carolina -Junior keeper Caitlin Hunter recorded a career-high 11 saves, but UNCW suffered a 2-0 setback to South Carolina in collegiate women's soccer action Sunday in the Carolina's Cup at Historic Riggs Field.

The Gamecocks improved to 5-2 on the season while the Seahawks slipped to 2-4 on the campaign. UNCW opens the home portion of its 2011 schedule Sept. 16 when it hosts North Florida in the Hilton Garden Inn Mayfaire Invitational.

"It is vital to score first in these games," said UNCW Head Coach Paul Cairney. "When you fall behind to a quality opponent like South Carolina, it makes you chase the game. Our team did respond well after allowing the first goal, creating several good scoring opportunities, but our pressure dropped off in the second half and they were all over us. Give credit to our keeper, Caitlin Hunter, who kept the game close with some excellent saves."

South Carolina senior Maria Petroni opened the scoring at the 12:28 mark as she teamed up with sophomore Danielle Au and freshman Ali Whitney for her second goal of the season.

Senior Kortney Rhodes doubled the South Carolina advantage in the 58th minute with her second goal of the campaign. Senior Kayla Grimsley was credited with an assist on the play.  

Nine of Hunters' 11 saves came in the second half as the Gamecocks posted a 17-3 advantage in shots taken over the final 45 minutes to finish with a 26-10 shot advantage for the contest. The Gamecocks also attempted all 10 corner kicks taken  during the game. Sophomore Darien Vercillo made two stops for the Gamecocks to post her second shutout of the season.  

"We need to make better use of our attacks." said Cairney. "We need to focus on the next game and learn from this contest as we strive to get better."