South Carolina leaned heavily on a newcomer and a veteran Friday in a 4-2 win over Florida at McKethan Stadium.
Freshman outfielder Carlos Cortes continued his hot hitting, going 2-for-5 and belting a two-run home run in the first inning, his fifth of the season.
Junior pitcher Wil Crowe (4-3) struck out three, walked none and allowed six hits and a run in seven innings pitched.
The Gamecocks (24-14, 9-8 SEC) tied the series and earned their first win in Gainesville since the 2011 season. Game 3 is noon Saturday on ESPN2.
Tyler Johnson battled out of no outs, bases loaded eighth inning and went on to earn his sixth save of the season.