The Florida Gators jumped out to an early lead, but couldn't sustain it against the South Carolina Gamecocks, losing 7-3 in the first round of the College World Series. The Gators led 2-0 after three innings from Preston Tucker's two-out two RBI double. But Brian Johnson was flirting with danger all game, and finally got bit in the top of the fifth inning. South Carolina loaded the bases with no one out, and Erik Payne delivered a crushing three-RBI triple to left center to clear the bases and put the Gamecocks on top for good. The Gators struggled at the plate in the top of their lineup, with batters one through six combining to go 2-for-20 for the game. Florida made uncharacteristic errors late in the game, and will now have to battle back in the loser's bracket in Omaha. South Carolina extended its NCAA-postseason best winning streak to 22 games, 12 coming in Omaha dating back to 2010. The Gators face Kent State on Monday at 5pm in an elimination game.