ORANGEBURG, S.C. - The Charleston Southern soccer team came back from a 2-0 deficit to force overtime against South Carolina State University, but the Buccaneers were defeated 3-2 in double OT Tuesday night at Oliver C. Dawson Bulldog Stadium.

An early strike by Sasha Bender gave the home squad the early momentum. Bender had the ball 35 yards away from the CSU net in the second minute of action, and she took a desperation shot after being harassed by the Buccaneer defense. The ball sailed over the outstretched arms of goalkeeper Alyssa Budros and CSU found itself behind early.

Charleston Southern became more aggressive after falling behind, but a goal by Delaney Marier in the 15th minute off an assist to Alejandro Chirino stalled the blue and white comeback.

That was until the second half began, when the Buccaneers dominated the time of possession and were able to fight their way back.

Marky Boyce possessed the ball in the 65th minute, and she had room to carry the ball from midfield. When a defender stepped to her, she slid Caitlin Wesnesky through on the left side and she finished the job by putting the ball past S.C. State goalkeeper Alecia Brothers.

The goal re-energized the Buccaneers, and it would show less than five minutes later when Michelle Dennis would notch the equalizer. Anja Djumisic possessed the ball 35 yards away in the middle of the field. She passed the ball to Wesnesky on the left flank, who sent a perfect cross to Dennis. Dennis beat a charging Brothers on the right side, which sent CSU into a frenzy.

Charleston Southern continued to be strong on the attack, and had multiple chances to score the game-winner. The home team didn't do itself any favors by failing to mount any offense in the final minutes of action.

Despite all the chances, the Bucs couldn't score and the game went into extra sessions.

After a scoreless first OT that included quality golden-goal opportunities by both teams, Chirino sailed a high ball through the outstretched arms of Budros 30 seconds into the second overtime, and Charleston Southern was sent home with the loss.

The win by the Bulldogs was the first over CSU in program history, and it improved their record to 3-4 on the season. Charleston Southern fell to 5-2 this year, but the team has still not been defeated in regulation.

The Buccaneers return home Sept. 19 for a 2 p.m. matchup with Newberry College at Buccaneer Field.