FERRUM, Virginia - Ferrum College's soccer team delivered a dominating performance in their first match of the 2024 season, defeating Warren Wilson College 6-2. Junior forward Jonathan Nicacio led the charge with a hat-trick and one assist, while freshman Peter Larusson had an impressive debut with two goals.

RECORDS
Ferrum (1-0)
Warren Wilson (0-1)

THE BASICS
Nicacio wasted no time putting Ferrum on the scoreboard, finding the net just four minutes into the game. He then extended Ferrum's lead with his second goal in the 17th minute, making it 2-0. Warren Wilson's Aidan Avila managed to score for the Owls halfway through the first half, but Ferrum's Calvin Sanders restored the Panthers' advantage with a spectacular goal from just beyond the half-field line, giving Ferrum a 3-1 lead at the half.

The second half saw Ferrum continue their offensive onslaught. Nicacio completed his hat-trick less than two minutes into the half, further solidifying Ferrum's dominance. Freshman Peter Larusson showcased his potential by scoring back-to-back goals in the 54th and 56th minutes, bringing the score to 6-1.

Warren Wilson's Avila added a late goal with under seven minutes to play, but it was not enough to close the gap as Ferrum secured a commanding 6-2 victory.

KEY STATS
Ferrum: Nicacio 3 goals, 1 asst; Larusson 2 goals; GK John Wisneski (W, 1-0) 90 min, 2 saves
Warren Wilson: Avila 2 goals; GK Kamdyn Gramsch-Milliken (L, 0-1) 90 min, 5 saves

BEHIND THE WHISTLE
"Well done to the boys for the commanding result with lots of new faces," said Ferrum Head Coach Matt Cureton. "At the end of the day it was a positive night but we have a long way to go as a team."

UP NEXT
Coach Cureton's team will be back in action Sunday, September 1 at home against Bridgewater College. Game time is set for 5:00 p.m. at Penn-Roediger field.