ETTRICK,VA (Sept. 14, 2019)- The Virginia State University Trojans football team claimed their first win of the 2019 season after defeating the Braves of UNC Pembroke, 35-16. The home season opener victory made the "Day of Appreciation" extra special as VSU Athletics recognized the hard work and dedication of the Military and VSU Faculty and Staff.
The Trojans currently hold a 1-1 overall record while opening a 1-0 series record with the Braves.
Despite the Braves scoring on the opening kick return for the 6-0 lead, VSU's Cordelral Cook ran in a 6 yard touchdown after 11 plays for 70 yards. The Trojans returned to the end zone in the last few minutes of the first quarter, this time Cook making a 68 yard pass connection to Darius Hagans. VSU ended the quarter with a 14-6 lead over UNC Pembroke.
The Braves attempted to close the scoring gap in the 2nd quarter with a field goal bring the score to 14-9, but Demetrious Strickland ran in for a 22 yard touchdown in the opening minutes of the 3rd quarter. The Trojans ended the quarter with a 21-9 lead.
A 6 yard pass into the Braves end zone closed the scoring gap, but the game still ruled in favor of the Trojans 21-16. Hagans made another end zone appearance with a 55 yard run off of 2 plays on 57 yards. With the score at 28-16, the Trojans ensured their win with a 1 yard run by Toure Wallace to give the Trojans a 35-16 victory over UNC Pembroke.
On the defensive side of the game, the Trojans were led by NaShawn Reid- Carolos with 10 solo tackles. Â
VSU will return to action on Sept. 21 with a 1pm road contest against the Falcons of St. Augustine's University.
For the most up-to-date information on VSU football, please visit www.govsutrojans.com,follow Trojans Athletics on Twitter @VSUsports and on Instagram VSUtrojans_1882.
