Phoenixville, PA. – Five goals in the second half led the University of Valley Forge Men's Soccer team to a 5-1 victory against the Nittany Lions of Penn State Scranton in its home opener on Friday night.

With a welcoming crowd at hand, the Patriots (1-0) won their home-opening game for the first time since the 2016 season. Valley Forge advanced from goals by freshman, Daniel Ngabo in the 58^th minute, sophomore Devon Washington in the 64^th minute, freshman Mathurin Allawai with 2 goals scored in the 74^th and 76^th minute and freshman Ryan Aguas in the 81^st minute.

"Today's win was all about resilience. Our men took the field in the second half being down 1-0 with a winning mentality and performed excellently," Patriots coach John Badidis said. "Their hard work, and determination won them this game, and I am excited to see how this season will unfold."

Ngabo's goal, assisted by Allawai allowed the Patriots to tie the game 1-1. Six minutes later, Washington struck a beautiful goal to gain the lead. Valley Forge made it 3-1 with a notable header by Allawai which was assisted by Trevor Paisley. Allawai continued to dominate possession as he secured his 2^nd goal of the evening from a cross by Washington. With nine minutes left in the game, Aguas scored his first career goal to down the Nittany Lions 5-1.

Allawai had an impressive first appearance as a Patriot, finishing the match with 11 shots on goal.

"Mathurin Allawai is a talented player," Badidis added. "It's obvious from a mile away that he is gifted, and when you add in his passion for the game, that could be a scary combination. His hunger to be better will make him one of the most elite players around."

Valley Forge out-shot Penn State Scranton, 40-7, with an 8-1 benefit on corner kicks.

De'Andre Rogers, goalkeeper for the Patriots finished the game with six saves in his career debut.

The Patriots will wrap up their weekend at home with a matchup against The King's College on Sunday, September 1, at 4 p.m.