LEXINGTON, VIRGINIA — VMI snapped a two-game losing streak Saturday with a 2-1 victory over visiting ETSU, securing the Commodores' first win since October 18. The home side controlled the match's decisive moments, scoring twice in the first 51 minutes before holding off a late ETSU rally.
Ricky Perez opened the scoring in the 42nd minute, capitalizing on a set piece opportunity with an assist from Jesse Lee. VMI doubled its advantage early in the second half when Jack Yough fired a left-footed strike past Emil Holmberg in the 50th minute, giving the hosts a commanding 2-0 lead.
ETSU mounted a comeback attempt in the final stages, with Sergio Baguena converting a corner kick in the 87th minute off a Berkay Duman assist. The Buccaneers pressed for an equalizer in stoppage time, but VMI goalkeeper Zack Murphy made a crucial save on Jordan Savage's attempt to preserve the result.
VMI dominated possession and created consistent opportunities throughout, recording seven saves compared to ETSU's three. The Commodores' defense limited the visitors to eight shots on goal despite ETSU's 16 total attempts, reflecting disciplined positioning and goalkeeper Murphy's strong performance.
ETSU controlled the first half with multiple free-kick opportunities but failed to convert. The Buccaneers generated seven corner kicks to VMI's five but couldn't capitalize on their set-piece advantages until late in the match. Their inability to finish early proved costly against a VMI side that remained clinical when opportunities presente