LEXINGTON, Va. (September 21, 2021) – Howard University freshman Bryson Baker (Elliott City, Md.) produced his first-career hat trick in the 4-0 victory over Virginia Military Institute (VMI).
 
With the win, HU (1-2-2) secured its first win of the season while VMI (0-8) remains winless.
 
"This was a great team victory," said Howard men's soccer head coach Phillip Gyau. "We stayed aggressive all game and kept the pressure on. I'm extremely proud of these young men."
 
In the opening moments, D.C. native Rudy Acree delivered a pass behind the defense where Baker scored the contest's first goal, 1-0.
 
Baker scored again at the 16-minute mark, thanks to an assist from senior Duncan Dunkwu (Germantown, Md.) to extend the lead, 2-0.
 
After taking a 2-0 halftime lead, Baker was fouled inside the box where he capitalized on a penalty kick opportunity and notched his third goal of the match, 3-0.
 
In the waning minutes, sophomore Sammy Oladeji (Arlington, Texas) added an insurance goal to make the final score 4-0.
 
Senior goalkeeper Emery Simon (Elkhart, Ind.) registered his first shutout of the year, along with eight saves in the win.
 
VMI's Nathan Lam had match-high five shot attempts in the loss.
 
Sunday (Sept.26), the Bison return home to take on St. Francis-Brooklyn at Greene Stadium. Match time is scheduled for 3 p.m.
 
For more information, visit the Bison Athletics website at www.HUBison.com.