CHESTER, Pa. - Army West Point (4-4-4) secured a commanding 4-0 victory over Navy (3-6-4) in their annual rivalry match on Friday evening at PPL Park, extending the Midshipmen's losing streak to three games while recording their most decisive win of the season.
Jack Kryger opened the scoring for Army in the 15th minute with a precise finish after connecting with Jack Meyer's service. Riley Cullum doubled the Black Knights' advantage in the 58th minute, again assisted by Meyer. Jubril Bamgbala then took center stage, netting twice in quick succession - first in the 70th minute from Owen Ennis's setup, followed by an unassisted strike just one minute later to complete his brace.
The first half showcased Army's attacking intent, with Bamgbala testing Navy's defense early with a shot in the 2nd minute. The Black Knights maintained pressure throughout the opening period, with Owen Ennis and Jack Kryger both forcing saves before Kryger's breakthrough. Navy's best chance came through A.J. Schuetz's blocked effort in the 20th minute, but Army's defensive organization limited the Midshipmen's opportunities.
Army's dominance continued after the break, with their tactical adjustments paying dividends. The Black Knights' pressure intensified, leading to Cullum's goal and Bamgbala's quick-fire double. Navy struggled to contain Army's attacking movements, particularly after the introduction of fresh legs through multiple substitutions around the 70-minute mark.
The statistical disparity reflected Army's control, as they outshot Navy 24-10, with 13 shots on target compared to Navy's single attempt. The Black Knights also dominated set pieces, earning nine corners to Navy's one. The physical nature of the rivalry showed in the cards, with Navy's Keane Brown receiving a yellow in the 34th minute, while Army collected three cautions through Jack Meyer, Sean Adu-Gyamfi, and Theo Harzbecker.
Bamgbala's two-goal performance highlighted his impact on the match, while Jack Meyer's playmaking proved crucial with two assists. Navy's goalkeeper faced constant pressure, making nine saves despite conceding four goals. Riley Cullum's presence in midfield helped Army maintain territorial advantage, contributing both defensively and in attack with his goal.
Army's tactical approach emphasized wide play and quick transitions, effectively stretching Navy's defensive structure. The Black Knights' success in maintaining possession allowed them to control the tempo, while their pressing strategy disrupted Navy's attempts to build from the back. The Midshipmen struggled to establish their preferred passing rhythm, forced into a more defensive posture as the match progressed.
The victory marks a significant momentum shift for Army West Point, who had suffered consecutive losses to Princeton and Bucknell before this match. For Navy, the defeat extends their challenging run, having now failed to score in three straight matches while conceding seven goals during this stretch.
Army West Point will look to build on this commanding performance when they host Columbia on October 14, while Navy aims to regroup before facing Lafayette on October 18. The Black Knights' comprehensive victory not only secured bragging rights in this historic rivalry but also demonstrated their potential when executing their game plan effectively.