NEWPORT NEWS — Evan Howard recorded his second hat trick of the season and Lionsbridge FC dominated from start to finish in a 7-0 victory over Patuxent FA on Saturday night at TowneBank Stadium, clinching a spot in the 2025 USL League Two playoffs.
Howard scored three times in just six minutes during the first half, finishing goals in the 34th, 35th, and 40th minutes. Christian Hatley opened the scoring early in the 2nd minute with a volley at the back post, and Taig Healy doubled the lead eight minutes later with a solo effort following a short corner.
Healy also notched two assists in the first half and was involved in four of the seven goals on the night. Sam Hall headed in a corner kick from Andrew Bennett in the 47th minute, and Isiah Chisolm capped the scoring in the 51st after a saved shot from Rick Louis fell into his path.
Lionsbridge (12-2-3 overall, 9-2-3 Chesapeake Division) outshot winless Patuxent FA (0-12-2) by a margin of 21-5 and earned seven corner kicks to Patuxent’s one.
With the win, Lionsbridge secures its place in the postseason and will host Charlotte Independence in the first round of the USL League Two playoffs on July 15 at TowneBank Stadium.
Tickets for the game and more information can be found on lionsbridgefc.com.