DAHLONEGA – The University of North Georgia men's soccer team used a five-goal first half to defeat USC Aiken for their first Peach Belt Conference win on Wednesday evening at the UNG Soccer Field at Lynn Cottrell Park.
 
Joe McInnes kicked off the scoring in the 16th minute. The Nighthawks began scoring at will for the next 20 minutes, increasing the lead from 1-0 to 4-0 by the 36th minute. Haris Osmanbasic, Max Garnett and Payge Sinclair added goals two, three and four for North Georgia.
 
A second McInnes goal in the 43rd minute ended the half, and both sides would head into the half in a 5-0 game.

USC Aiken would hold the Nighthawks in check for the majority of the second half as a 62nd-minute score for Tyler Vitelli would be the lone goal in half for either side.
 
USC Aiken would have its chances throughout, but the back line of North Georgia and goalkeeper Hazel Ley would keep the Pacers quiet in the match.

Inside the Box Score
• UNG's six goals are the most for the Nighthawks this season.
• USC Aiken had five more corner kick opportunities than UNG but the Nighthawks were able to hold the Pacers to ten less shots.
• McInnes had two goals and one assist to extend his team lead in both categories.  

Next Up
The Nighthawks look to ride their momentum when they face Clayton State for a weekend PBC battle against the Lakers.