The Kalamazoo College men's soccer team kicked off Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association play Wednesday afternoon in dominating fashion, much in part due to the hat trick produced by Kyle Hernandez. The Hornets defeated Olivet College on the road, 5-1.
Cal Kirchen got the scoring frenzy started in the 27th minute when he gave the Hornets a 1-0 lead on an assist from Antonio Pisto. The goal was Kirchen's second of the season.
Hernandez nabbed his first goal in the 41st minute, sending the Hornets to halftime with a 2-0 lead.
Just over ten minutes into the beginning of play in the second half, Hernandez finished his second of the day on an assist from Joshua Robison. Hernandez completed his hat trick in the 58th minute. Benjamin Kileen was credited with the assist.
In the 74th minute, Olivet scored its only goal of the match but the Hornets countered quickly thereafter as Jordan Veillette scored in the 76th minute.
Kalamazoo carried play throughout the course of the game in its entirety as they outshot the Comets 24-6.
The Hornets will host their first MIAA match of the season this Saturday, Sept. 19, when the Albion College Britons travel to MacKenzie Field. Kickoff is scheduled for 12 p.m.