ROME, Ga. -- Josh Hughes scored five goals--all in the first half--as Berry College defeated Birmingham-Southern, 5-0, on Sunday. 

BC improved to 9-5-2 and 4-1-1 in the Southern Athletic Association. The visiting Panthers dropped to 9-6-1 and 3-3.

A senior, Hughes accomplished the feat on Senior Day. Just 2:08 into the contest Hughes tallied from Kyle Fitting.

In the 22nd minute, he scored unassisted as he dribbled into the box and fired. He earned the "natural hat trick" in the 34th minute on a penalty kick.

Fitting assisted Hughes again in the 44th minute. He crossed a ball which Hughes deflected into a tight spot. 

With seconds left in the half, Hughes closed the game's scoring with a long finish to the upper right side of the goal.

There was no scoring in the second half, perhaps because Hughes rested on the bench the entire 45 minutes.

"I wish I could say I've done this before, but it is a first and probably a last for me," said Hughes. "I'm usually fortunate to get five goals in a season."

The midfielder had four goals entering the game. He now sits firmly atop the Viking scoring list with 19 points.

Berry led in shots (16-1) and corner kicks (4-1). Logan Hill earned the win and made one save. He was relieved by Jon Nelson--who made his collegiate debut--for the last 21:59.

Follwoinig the match, six seniors (including Hughes) were recognized for senior day.

"It was great to do this on Senior Day because my parents are always supporting me and at all of the games," said Hughes. "To give back to them is a great experience for me."

The Vikings close SAA regular season play at Oglethorpe on Saturday.

View the Josh Hughes interview here: