Men's soccer opened their 2024 season in a high-scoring affair, defeating South Mountain CC 5-1 in an away match on August 24. In a commanding performance, the Puams set the tone for a promising season ahead.

The Pumas came out strong, scoring three goals in the first half. The opening goal came just nine minutes into the game from defender Luis Hernandez, assisted by Benjamin Orozco, followed by Brayan Duran's header off a corner kick from Milkanu Baker at the 13-minute mark. Before halftime, Fernando Botello added another header, this time assisted by Rafael Munoz, putting the Pumas firmly in control with a 3-0 lead.

Coach Christian DeVries praised the team, "Our focus on character and community was evident in how we approached this game. The men played with unity, and it paid off."

In the second half, Botello scored his second goal of the game off another corner kick assist from Joel Hernandez in the 70th minute. SMCC's Jhoan Soto scored a consolation goal at the 74-minute mark, but PVCC responded quickly, with Joel Hernandez sealing the game with a 30-yard free-kick in the 79th minute to finalize the 5-1 victory.

Preston Parsons anchored the Pumas defensively with three key saves, maintaining the team's composure throughout the match.

The Pumas now look forward to continuing their momentum as they prepare for Phoenix College, the 2023 NJCAA national runner-up and preseason #2, on Wednesday, August 28 at 7pm.

"This match is a great opportunity for our team to measure where we stand early in the season," DeVries said. "We're ready to face a strong opponent, and we'll rely on our unity and effort to rise to the challenge."