HAMBURG, N.Y. -- Houghton men's soccer got key contributions from five first-year players as the Highlanders opened the 2024 campaign with a 3-0 win over Hilbert on Friday.

GAME VITALS
Score: Houghton 3 | Hilbert 0
Location: Hamburg, N.Y. | Varsity Field
Attendance: 74
Records: Houghton 1-0-0 | Hilbert 0-1-0

DETAILS
>> The teams were scoreless for the first 60 minutes before freshman Sam Edwards scored his first career goal off an assist from senior Caleb Bailey.
>> It didn't take long for Houghton to score again, as first-year player John Fay found the net to put Houghton up 2-0 just 53 seconds later. Bailey picked up the assist.
>> Freshman Andrew Berardicurti closed the scoring in the 89th minute off an assist from freshman Rogan Byrne. 

NOTABLE STATS
>> The Highlanders held a 14-7 advantage in shots, including a 7-3 edge in shots on goal.
>> Freshman Joshua Smith made three saves in net to pick up the shutout win.
>> In addition to his two helpers, Bailey finished with a team-high three shots, including two on goal.
>> Sam O'Brien added two shots.

COACH McCOLL SAYS...
"I'm really pleased with the overall performance of the team. Hilbert were well organized and difficult to break down but we were patient and got the rewards in the second half. Our bench was really important in this game and it was great to see so many players contribute."

UP NEXT
The next contest for the Highlanders is their home opener on Tuesday, September 3 when they host Bryant and Stratton at 7 p.m.