The Hesston College men’s soccer team notched its first win of the year with a 7-1 drubbing of Central Christian JV, McPherson, Kan., on Thursday night, Sept 22.

On a perfect evening for soccer, the Larks scored early and often, enjoying a 13-3 advantage in shots on goal.

“I’m extremely pleased with the way the team came out and played tonight – we’re finally starting to play fun soccer,” said Hesston coach Kurt Hostetler. “Once again our defense was solid and tonight our offense came alive. This was definitely a needed victory for us.”

Freshman Luis Ramirez (Tachira, Venezuela) recorded a hat-trick and fellow freshmen Iago Cardoso (Bridegwater, Va.) and Avery Emmert (Maize, Kan.) had two goals apiece. Jhasson Fernandez (Wichita, Kan.), another freshman, was credited with two assists while sophomore Kurtis Keating (Chapman, Kan.) added one. Cardoso capped off a huge night with three assists. Freshman keeper Tyler Huneycutt (Wichita, Kan.) stopped two shots in goal for the win. 

“Over that past few games we’ve been able to build and improve and tonight was a culmination of that,” Hostetler said. “I’m proud of the 90 minutes this team put together tonight. We’re excited and definitely looking forward to Saturday.” 

Hesston, now 1-7 on the year, welcomes Independence (Kan.) Community College to the Hesston campus on Saturday night, Sept. 24, as part of the college’s annual homecoming celebration. The game begins at 7 p.m.