The Fighting Scots’ varsity soccer squad couldn’t have picked a better time to pick up their first regular season win.

After going winless through their non-conference schedule, Scotland bested Southeastern Conference opponent Purnell Swett 6-1 at home.

For Scotland head coach Colin McDavid, the win is the culmination of seeing his team show dramatic improvement over the past few weeks.

“I recognize that we still have much to work on, including doing everything that we do at a much faster pace,” McDavid said. “But with that said, Purnell Swett was a much improved team from last year and it was great to get a win against them. We finally broke through.”

During the game, Scotland’s offense was as unselfish and prolific as it’s been all season long. Afiz Lateef, Meelad Alinaghian, Stone Phillips, Bill Killough, Carter Dold and Keon Grant each had goals in the contest.

Equally impressive was the Fighting Scots’ defense, anchored by Robert McMillian and Brandon McDonald who shared goalkeeping duties in the first and second half, respectively. The Rams didn’t register their first and only goal until late in the second half on a penalty kick.

Though it was an important victory for the Scots, who can contend for the playoffs should they compile a winning conference record, the team will go on a week-long road trip to Pinecrest, Hoke and Terry Sanford beginning Monday night.