COLUMBIA, S.C. — A first-half goal from Josue Pirela pushed CIU past rival Columbia College 1–0 on Wednesday night at Sessions Field.

Pirela broke the scoreless tie in the 43rd minute, finishing off a setup from forward Ive Celic to give the Rams the only goal of the game. The win moved CIU to 6–5–1 overall and 5–4–1 in Appalachian Athletic Conference play, while Columbia College dropped to 6–6–2.

The Rams defense held firm throughout the match, anchored by goalkeeper Vasilios Diakomihalis, who tallied three saves to earn the clean sheet. CIU's consistent defensive effort from Juan Pineda, Elijah Brannam, and Victor Gonzalez contained Columbia College's second-half surge and limited quality chances down the stretch.

Pineda led the Rams with three shots, while Gonzalez added a shot on goal. CIU finished with seven shots—three on target—matching Columbia College's offensive output.

The rivalry match featured a physical tone, with a combined 13 fouls from Columbia College and 12 from CIU. Despite several late pushes from their opponent, the Rams' composure and defensive organization sealed the win. 

CIU will return to conference play this weekend, Oct. 18, to face Tennessee Wesleyan in its home finale.