Year: 2021

Matchweek Twelve had a flurry of action with seven matches in five days. Livonia City was the lone club without a league fixture during a busy week.

West Michigan Bearings played two games in one day, while BiH Grand Rapids attempted a similar feat in a losing effort against Detroit City FC’s U23s in Matchweek Twelve’s game of the week. The week brought joy to a few teams, but Matchweek Twelve was not kind to LK St. Clair, who dropped both of their games and conceded 15 goals in the process. 

With the 2021 season winding down, only three teams remain in contention for the East Division crown. DCFC’s U23s remain the front-runners, but will no longer control their own destiny if they fail to pick up points in their final two games. Lansing Common and BiH Grand Rapids kick the week off, with both teams needing to win all of their remaining games, and with five other matches set, there will be no shortage of excitement. 

Here is your Matchweek Thirteen preview for the Midwest Premier League’s East Division

Last week’s results

LK St. Clair drew v. West Michigan Bearings (2-2)

After the initial match date was postponed due to weather, LK St. Clair and the West Michigan Bearings kicked off Matchweek Twelve early Saturday morning with both teams sharing the points. 

It was only the second time this season that LK St. Clair managed to pick up points, while the draw saw the Bearings eliminated from title contention.. 

West Michigan Bearings def. Michigan Stars FC U23 (6-2)

In the second game of their Saturday doubleheader, the West Michigan Bearings dismantled Michigan Stars FC’s U23s on the road, 6-2. Ian Adams earned the first-ever hat-trick for the Bearings while playing on the Stars’ new outdoor turf. The loss dropped the Stars into fifth place in the East Division, while the win propelled the Bearings into third. 

BiH Grand Rapids def. Inter Detroit (3-1)

BiH Grand Rapids 3-1 victory over Inter Detroit was what they needed to keep their title hopes alive. Chepe Lopez, Chris Mendez, and Eddie Burdalic scored for BiH, giving them a valuable three points. 

The win kept BiH in the hunt for the division title, while the loss dropped Inter Detroit down to seventh place in the standings. 

Detroit City FC U23 def. BiH Grand Rapids (1-0)

Matchweek Twelve’s Game of the Week was a one-goal nail-biter that saw DCFC remain division title favorites. Keith Larson’s 25th-minute goal gave Le Rouge the lead going into halftime. 

Pushing for an equalizer, BiH had a few chances, but DCFC goalkeeper Sean Ellis maintained the one-goal lead and clean sheet. Le Rouge earned a valuable three points and are now one win away from silverware. 

Lansing Common FC def. LK St. Clair (8-0)

In the first meeting between these two clubs, Lansing Common bagged eight goals from six different goal-scorers, earning a much-needed victory after dropping points earlier in the week. The Robins, coming off a 1-0 defeat to the West Michigan Bearings, scored four goals in eight minutes and took a 5-0 lead into the halftime break. 

After failing to finish chances in the loss against the Bearings, the Robins made the most of their opportunities, including Forwards Ty Usiak and Josh Rosendale, who both bagged two goals. Lansing would net another three and leave Mt. Clemens High School as 8-0 victors. 

Inter Detroit drew v. Michigan Stars FC U23 (1-1)

The first midweek fixture of Matchweek Twelve saw Inter Detroit and Michigan Stars split the points at Evolution Sportsplex. Both teams came into the week eliminated from title contention and have been sliding down the standings as of late. 

Detroit City FC U23 def. LK St. Clair (7-2)

Detroit City entered Matchweek Twelve as title favorites and maintained that position with a 7-2 victory over LK St. Clair at Mt. Clemens High School. Le Rouge’s potent offense went back to work after their defense held strong in their 1-0 victory over BiH. 

Wednesday’s nightcap was the fourth time this season that saw DCFC score four or more goals, while LK became only the second team to score more than one goal against Le Rouge’s U23s. 

This week’s fixtures

BiH Grand Rapids vs. Lansing Common FC (July 16, 2021, 7:00 p.m.)

Matchweek Thirteen kicks off with a matchup between two teams vying for the East Division’s title when Lansing Common FC travels to Western Michigan to take on BiH Grand Rapids. The first meeting between these two teams was a five-goal thriller that saw Lansing come away with a victory at home. BiH is coming off a weekend split, having beaten Inter Detroit 3-1, then losing to DCFC’s U23s the following day. Lansing dismantled LK St. Clair last weekend with six different goal-scorers and will be looking for another strong offensive performance. Both teams need to come away with the full three points, as a loss will officially eliminate the losing team. 

West Michigan Bearings vs. Livonia City FC (July 17, 2021, 3:00 p.m.)

After being eliminated from division-title contention last weekend, the West Michigan Bearings will host Livonia City FC in the final meeting between the two clubs this season. The Bearings opened this year’s campaign in exciting fashion against Livonia, beating them 4-1. However, four consecutive winless games saw their title hopes slip away. Livonia has not had the best of seasons either, but have had some good showings including a 3-0 victory against Inter Detroit just over a week ago. 

Michigan Stars FC U23 vs. BiH Grand Rapids (July 17, 2021, 5:00 p.m.)

In their second game of Matchweek Thirteen, BiH Grand Rapids will go on the road to take on Michigan Stars’ U23 side in Saturday’s nightcap. The Stars will be coming off another 1-1 draw against Inter Detroit and a 6-2 defeat against the Bearings.

The Stars have been eliminated from title contention, while BiH needs to win all of their remaining games and hope for some help. BiH will be looking for a much-needed victory against an inconsistent Stars team that will be looking to play spoiler. 

Detroit City FC U23 vs. Lansing Common FC (July 18, 2021, 1:00 p.m.)

For DCFC’s U23s, the task is simple: Win either of your final two games, and the division is yours. Le Rouge will have two opportunities at the title this weekend, the first of which comes at home against Lansing Common. The first meeting between these two saw the Robins become the first team to take points from the Hamtramck side this season with a 3-0 victory in Lansing. If Lansing gets a win against BiH on Friday, they’ll need another victory on Sunday to keep their title hopes alive, while the race for the top could be over two weeks early if Le Rouge takes all three points. 

Inter Detroit vs. LK St. Clair (July 18, 2021, 5:00 p.m.)

LK St. Clair will look to taste victory for the first time this season against the team directly above them in the standings, Inter Detroit. St. Clair is coming off consecutive defeats, conceding a combined 15 goals in the process, while Inter is coming off a surprise 1-1 draw against the Stars. Both teams will be looking to earn a win in their penultimate game of the season. 

BiH Grand Rapids vs. Detroit City FC U23 (July 21, 2021, 8:00 p.m.)

Matchweek Thirteen will conclude with what could be a pivotal game for the East Division title when BiH Grand Rapids hosts DCFC’s U23s Wednesday night. Last week’s meeting between these two ended 1-0 with Le Rouge earning the victory. Detroit City could clinch the division title with a win if they fail to pick up points against Lansing Common on Sunday, while a win for BiH could force Le Rouge to wait to see if they will become champions. 

Standings

1. Detroit City FC U23 (11-0-1, 33 points in 12 GP)
2. Lansing Common FC (6-1-2, 19 points in 9 GP)
3. West Michigan Bearings (5-3-3, 18 points in 11 GP)
4. BiH Grand Rapids (5-1-2, 16 points in 8 GP)
5. Michigan Stars FC U23 (4-3-3, 15 points in 10 GP)
6. Livonia City FC (2-3-7, 9 points in 12 GP)
7. Inter Detroit (1-5-6, 8 points in 12 GP)
8. LK St. Clair (0-2-10, 2 points in 12 GP)

Standings (points per game)

1. Detroit City FC U23 (2.75)
2. Lansing Common FC (2.11)
3. BiH Grand Rapids (2.00)
4. West Michigan Bearings (1.63)
5. Michigan Stars FC U23 (1.50)
6. Livonia City FC (0.75)
7. Inter Detroit (0.67)
8. LK St. Clair (0.17)

Lansing Common FC returns to action this weekend with two games on the road against BiH Grand Rapids on Friday, July 16, and Detroit City FC U23 on Sunday, July 18. A little over two weeks ago, the Robins captured victories over both sides at home, but with a title race on the line, these could be two of the most challenging fixtures for the Robins this season. 

Lansing (6-1-2) will play its second consecutive weekend with multiple away games. Last week, the West Michigan Bearings handed Lansing its second loss of the season in a 1-0 outing at South Christian High School. Then, the Robins traveled to Mount Clemens where they defeated LK St. Clair 8-0 with goals from Joshua Rosendale (2), Shady Omar, Munir Sherali, Ty Usiak (2), Adain O’Connor, and captain Julian Birge. 

Both Usiak and Rosendale scored two goals apiece and cemented Lansing’s largest win margin this season.

BiH Grand Rapids (5-1-2) sits in 4th place in the league and has the best defensive record, having conceded only six goals. Lansing grabbed a 3-2 win over BiH on June 26 without regular starters like Omar, Sherali, and goalkeeper Zac Kelly. 

BiH Grand Rapids forwards Chris Mendez and Ojani Perez were on the scoresheet for the Kentwood-based club against Lansing, and they will look to add more goals to their tally.

Lansing midfielder Noah Canlas registered two assists from set pieces in that victory and earned the Man of the Match award. 

BiH Grand Rapids recently defeated Inter Detroit 3-1 on July 10 at Evolution Sportsplex but then fell to DCFC 1-0 the next day. BiH has the opportunity to be level on points with Lansing in the East Division standings with a win on Friday.

Lansing will then travel to Keyworth Stadium on Sunday to face DCFC for the second time this season. The Robins handed Le Rouge their first and only Midwest Premier League loss at Eastern Stadium, where it ended 3-0 with goals from Canlas, Birge, and O’Connor. 

Head coach Josh Oakley praised his teams’ ability to keep a clean sheet against the most potent attacking side in the league as well as being clinical in front of goal. 

While there were a few missed chances from Lansing early on, their persistence and determination to score multiple goals ended in a positive outcome on the Fourth of July in front of their home crowd. 

DCFC (11-0-1) is coming off a 7-2 victory over LK St. Clair earlier this week on July 14. Le Rouge also obtained important points in a close contest against BiH Grand Rapids where forward Keith Larson secured a 1-0 victory for DCFC. 

Keyworth Stadium has been a fortress for DCFC this season, and the Robins will be looking to end Le Rouge’s home winning streak. Detroit can clinch the East Division title with a win, while Lansing will need two victories this weekend to stay in contention.

Lansing Common FC will kickoff against BiH Grand Rapids at 7 p.m. on July 16, and the match against Detroit City FC U23 will start at 1 p.m. on Sunday, July 18.

Even though it was short, Matchweek Eleven was full of fireworks on and off the pitch as the week started with some Fourth of July festivities. 

In the East Division game of the week, Lansing Common FC defeated Detroit City FC’s U23s in their first meeting of the season behind two goals in the final five minutes of the first half. The action continued a few days later when Livonia City took down Inter Detroit and the West Michigan Bearings defeated Lansing Common to keep their division title hopes alive. 

Matchweek Twelve has a busy slate of seven matches spread across five days that could see yet another team eliminated from division title contention. All eyes will be on Sunday’s match between BiH Grand Rapids and DCFC’s U23s in the first meeting between the two clubs. With another six matches on the Matchweek Twelve platter, there should be no shortage of glee, glory, and goals. 

Here is your Matchweek Twelve preview for the Midwest Premier League’s East Division. 

Last week’s results

Lansing Common FC def. Detroit City FC U23 (3-0)

Matchweek Eleven kicked off with Fourth of July fireworks at Eastern Stadium when Lansing Common FC defeated Detroit City FC’s U23s 3-0, behind two late first-half goals. After DCFC started the game dominating possession, Lansing earned a penalty in the 37th minute that was saved by DCFC goalkeeper Sean Ellis. The penalty spurred an 11-minute spell of possession that saw Lansing score twice in five minutes, including a 30-yard strike from Julian Birge’s just before the halftime whistle. 

Detroit would start the second half needing two goals to draw level, but they would ultimately give up the third goal in the 77th minute when defender Aidan O’Connor’s header passed by Ellis and into the back of the net. The Robins earned a valuable three points against the division leaders, while also handing Le Rouge their first loss of the season. 

Livonia City FC def. Inter Detroit (3-0)

In a surprising result, Livonia City FC defeated Inter Detroit on Wednesday night in the nightcap of Matchweek Eleven. After entering halftime scoreless, Livonia would score three times in the final 20 minutes to hand Inter their fourth consecutive defeat. 

Matt Versteeg scored the game’s opening goal in the 70th minute off a Kyle Breitmeyer cross and five minutes later Livonia would double their lead behind a strike from Thomas Dono. Breitmeyer would add a goal in the 87th minute and Livonia kept the clean sheet with a penalty save in stoppage time. For Livonia, their second win of the season saw them jump their opponents in the standings, while Inter’s lackluster effort saw them fail to pick up points for the fifth time this season. 

West Michigan Bearings def. Lansing Common FC (1-0)

In the final matchup between these two clubs, the Bearings took all six points from the season series, taking down Lansing Common 1-0 in Byron Center. Jordan Hooker’s strike in the opening 15 minutes of play was enough to earn three points as West Michigan was able to hold off Lansing’s attack for the remainder of the game. 

The Robins offensive attack was unable to solve the puzzle that was Carter Selvius. The Bearings net-minder came up with crucial saves in the final fifteen minutes of play after being tested continuously and earned a much-needed victory and clean sheet for his club. The win also kept the Bearings alive in the division title race for another week, while handing the Robins their first loss in over a month. 

This week’s fixtures

LK St. Clair vs. West Michigan Bearings (July 10, 2021, 11:00 a.m.)

Matchweek Twelve will have an early kickoff when the West Michigan Bearings travel to Eastern Michigan to take on LK St. Clair in Mt. Clemens. After staving off elimination from division-title contention on Wednesday, the Bearings will look to take a full three points from their first of two games on Saturday. LK is coming off a 3-1 loss against DCFC and is still looking for its first win of the season. Both teams will be fighting for a much-needed victory in the first of three matches on Saturday. 

Michigan Stars FC U23 vs. West Michigan Bearings (July 10, 2021, 6:00 p.m.)

After taking on LK St. Clair in the morning, West Michigan Bearings will travel to take on Michigan Stars FC’s U23 side in Washington. The Bearings need all six points from their Saturday doubleheader if they want to keep their division title hopes alive, while the Stars will be looking to get a full three points for the first time in over a month.

Inter Detroit vs. BiH Grand Rapids (July 10, 2021, 7:00 p.m.)

Inter Detroit will host BiH Grand Rapids in Saturday’s nightcap as both teams will look to get back to winning ways. Inter Detroit is coming off a surprise 3-0 loss to Livonia and have not tasted victory since May 15. BiH is playing catch-up in the standings, having played the fewest matches of any team so far this season. The Kentwood-based club is coming off a 3-2 loss to Lansing Common two weeks ago and will be looking to make the most out of their games in hand.

Detroit City FC U23 vs. BiH Grand Rapids (July 11, 2021, 1:00 p.m.)

The most important game in the East Division will take place Sunday afternoon when DCFC’s U23 side hosts BiH Grand Rapids in the first meeting between the two clubs. BiH will be playing their second game in as many days, while DCFC will be fresh off a week’s rest. Both teams are coming off losses to Lansing Common FC and a four-horse race has developed at the top of the East Division. A win for DCFC will officially eliminate the West Michigan Bearings from title contention, while a BiH victory will open the door for others to inch closer to the division leaders. 

LK St. Clair vs. Lansing Common FC (July 11, 2021, 4:00 p.m.)

After hosting the West Michigan Bearings the day before, LK St. Clair will host Lansing Common FC in Sunday’s nightcap. Lansing Common is coming off a 1-0 loss to West Michigan Bearings, who completed the double on the Robins. LK St. Clair enters the weekend without a win and will try to spoil Lansing’s prospects of challenging for the title. Lansing will need a victory if they want to keep pace with DCFC, who play earlier in the afternnoon. Both teams will be looking for a much-needed win: LK for pride, and Lansing for survival. 

Inter Detroit vs. Michigan Stars FC U23 (July 13, 2021, 7:00 p.m.)

Inter Detroit will host Michigan Stars FC’s U23s on Tuesday night in Auburn Hills in the penultimate game of Matchweek Twelve. For both teams, it will be the second game in four days after Inter hosts BiH and Stars host the West Michigan Bearings on Saturday. The first meeting between these two clubs ended in a 1-1 draw, but since then, both teams have been trending in different directions. The Stars will be looking to continue bridging the gap between themselves and DCFC, while Inter will be searching for an elusive second victory. 

LK St. Clair vs. Detroit City FC U23 (July 14, 2021, 7:30 p.m.)

Matchweek Twelve caps off with a battle between two teams who enter the week in polar opposite positions in the East Division standings. LK St. Clair will finish off their three-game homestand when they host DCFC’s U23 squad Wednesday night. For LK, it will be their third game in five days, while DCFC will be playing their second in four. In the busiest matchweek to date, DCFC could inch closer to winning the East Division with a perfect week, while LK will be playing for pride as their season winds down with no chance of silverware. 

Standings

1. Detroit City FC U23 (9-0-1, 27 points in 10 GP)
2. Lansing Common FC (5-1-2, 16 points in 8 GP)
3. Michigan Stars FC U23 (4-2-2, 14 points in 8 GP)
4. West Michigan Bearings (4-2-3, 14 points in 9 GP)
5. BiH Grand Rapids (4-1-1, 13 points in 6 GP)
6. Livonia City FC (2-3-7, 9 points in 12 GP)
7. Inter Detroit (1-4-5, 7 points in 10 GP)
8. LK St. Clair (0-1-8, 1 point in 9 GP)

Standings (points per game)

1. Detroit City FC U23 (2.70)
2. BiH Grand Rapids (2.17)
3. Lansing Common FC (2.00)
4. Michigan Stars FC U23 (1.75)
5. West Michigan Bearings (1.56)
6. Livonia City FC (0.75)
7. Inter Detroit (0.70)
8. LK St. Clair (0.11)

After defeating the Midwest Premier League East Division leaders Detroit City FC U23 in an electric 3-0 victory at home, Lansing Common FC will travel to South Christian High School in Grand Rapids to face the West Michigan Bearings on Wednesday, June 7.

The Bearings (3-2-3) are the only MWPL team to beat Lansing this season. Kyle Scott and Leutrim Shefkiu were the goal-scorers for the Robins in a 3-2 defeat on May 22. Josh Oakley’s team has since gained valuable experience and a strong run of form after that season-opener, going unbeaten in their last six games of league play.

The Bearings haven’t played a league game since June 15, when they lost to Detroit City FC U23 3-0. Their last match was a victory over UPSL side Grand Haven Admirals 3-1 in a friendly. 

The Bearings struggled against teams like Inter Detroit and BiH Grand Rapids after early wins over Livonia City, LK St. Clair, and the now-surging Lansing Common.

Lansing (5-1-1) has since climbed up the table and currently sits in second place with 16 points. Forward Shady Omar has become the club’s goal-scoring talisman with five goals and added a crucial assist against DCFC. 

Another emerging player for Lansing is midfielder Leutrim Shefkiu, who has become instrumental to both defense and offense. He has played almost every minute of the last four games and become the club’s unsung hero in the midfield. 

Shefkiu’s crafty dribbling skills and elite passing ability make him one of the toughest players to confront in the MWPL.

Lansing’s win over Detroit City showed its ability to stand tall after missed chances and keep a clean sheet against a high-pressing opponent. 

Both teams will be looking to earn a crucial three points, and Lansing Common FC hopes to extend their unbeaten streak in the MWPL. Kickoff for Wednesday’s game is set for 7 p.m. 

Lansing Common FC brought Fourth of July fireworks to Eastern Stadium’s pitch when they took down MWPL East Division Leaders Detroit City FC U23 3-0. First-half goals from midfielders Noah Canlas and Julian Birge helped lead the Robins to victory.

Lansing Common FC and Greater Lansing Open Soccer are excited to announce that the first-ever Robin Classic will take place July 24 at Eastern Stadium. The Robin Classic will feature a 4v4 coed soccer tournament with prizes of $300 for the tournament champion and $150 for runner-up.

“We’re excited to partner with Greater Lansing Open Soccer on what should be a great day of soccer,” said Lansing Common president Eric Walcott. “GLOS is a fantastic, community-focused organization like we are, and many of our board members and supporters have enjoyed playing in their leagues this summer, so we look forward to seeing everyone out for a fun tournament.”

Registration information and tournament rules are available on the GLOS website at www.GLOSoccer.com/robin2021. The registration deadline for the tournament is July 18.

Greater Lansing Open Soccer (GLOS) is the official community recreational soccer organization of Lansing Common FC. GLOS provides the Greater Lansing area with the highest quality social and competitive soccer leagues and tournaments. The GLOS staff is entirely comprised of active players from the Lansing area and like Lansing Common FC, is a community-centric organization that is dedicated to bringing soccer to the people.

Matchweek Ten was full of electricity, both on and off the pitch, as some games were postponed due to inclement weather while others were played with thunderstorms nearby. 

Detroit City played the most games and increased their division lead with three victories. The only match that did not involve Le Rouge was played on a stormy night in Lansing where Lansing Common FC hung on late against BiH Grand Rapids to hand the Kentwood-based side their first loss of the season. 

Matchweek Eleven has only three games, but it includes an exciting Fourth of July matchup between the division-leading DCFC U23s and Lansing Common FC. This season’s first meeting between these two teams will have a big impact on the East Division table heading into the final month of play. 

Here is your Matchweek Eleven preview for the Midwest Premier League’s East Division. 

Last week’s results

Detroit City FC U23 def. LK St. Clair (3-1)

The division leaders once again used a second-half showcase to put away an opponent, scoring two in the final 45 minutes and dispatching LK St. Clair 3-1. Le Rouge went into the halftime break up 1-0 after Brady Walker scored off a corner kick in the 36th minute. LK St. Clair made the game interesting 10 minutes into the second half when they cut into DCFC’s two-goal lead to make it 2-1. 

Forward Zion Beaton put the game away for Le Rouge in the 88th minute to give the Hamtramck side a 3-1 victory. The win kicked off another perfect weekend for DCFC and increased their division lead to nine points. 

Detroit City FC U23 def. Inter Detroit (4-0)

After tossing aside LK St. Clair, DCFC dominated Inter Detroit 4-0 and completed the season sweep, outscoring the Auburn Hills side 8-1 on aggregate. Kellen Landefeld opened the scoring in the 17th minute and Le Rouge nearly doubled their lead before the halftime break. 

Bosh Tanyi’s free-kick strike in the 52nd minute gave Detroit a 2-0 advantage. Tanyi,  Michigan’s 2020 Mr. Soccer award winner, would bag a brace in the 73rd minute to give DCFC the 4-0 victory and secure a perfect weekend for Le Rouge. The loss officially eliminated Inter Detroit from division title contention. 

Lansing Common FC def. BiH Grand Rapids (3-2)

After inclement weather forced kick-off to be delayed for 90 minutes, Lansing edged out previously-unbeaten BiH Grand Rapids 3-2. BiH’s Chris Mendez opened the scoring in the 13th minute, but Lansing would respond with a corner-kick goal off an Aidan O’Connor header in the 15th minute. The teams would go into the halftime break tied at 1-1.

Kyle Scott and Julian Birge would score for the Robins in the second half to give the home side a 3-1 lead with just over 10 minutes to play. Lansing Common goalkeeper Andrew Nicholsen’s penalty save in the 80th minute would prove to be vital as BiH would bag a goal in stoppage time, but it would not be enough as the Robins held on for the 3-2 victory and handed BiH their first loss of the season. 

LK St. Clair v. West Michigan Bearings [Rescheduled: July 10, 2021, 11:00 a.m.]

Inter Detroit v. Michigan Stars FC U23 [Rescheduled: July 13, 2021, 7:00 p.m.]

Detroit City FC U23 def. Michigan Stars FC U23 (2-1)

Detroit City continued their winning ways when they survived a late comeback effort from the Michigan Stars and escaped with a 2-1 victory on a rainy afternoon in Hamtramck. Forward Keith Larson scored first for Le Rouge in the 33rd minute under threatening skies that would eventually force the game to be delayed due to inclement weather. 

After a short weather delay and an abbreviated halftime break, DCFC would continue to create chances in the second half. Zion Beaton gave Detroit a 2-0 lead in the 77th minute, but Michigan Stars would answer back 5 minutes later, cutting the lead to 2-1. After the goal, a skirmish ensued and two red cards were issued, including one to DCFC’s starting goalkeeper Hunter Morse. Le Rouge would ultimately hold on to the 2-1 lead and finish their home stand with a third straight victory. 

This week’s fixtures

Lansing Common FC v. Detroit City FC U23 (July 4, 2021, 2:00 p.m.)

Lansing Common will host East Division leaders Detroit City FC for a Fourth of July matchup in the capital city. Lansing Common, after handing BiH Grand Rapids their first loss of the season, will look to end Detroit’s unbeaten streak when Le Rouge comes to Lansing. DCFC will be coming off another impressive performance, a 2-1 victory over Michigan Stars U23 that completed a season sweep. The result of this match could have championship implications, so expect to see early afternoon fireworks at Eastern Stadium. 

*Note: Lansing Common defeated Detroit City FC U23s 3-0 on Sunday, with goals from Noah Canlas, Julian Birge, and Aidan O’Connor. Goalkeeper Zac Kelly kept the clean sheet at Lansing Common moved into second place in the MWPL.

Livonia City FC v. Inter Detroit (July 7, 2021, 7:00 p.m.)

After their division title hopes were erased last week, Livonia City hosts Inter Detroit in a midweek matchup that will conclude a short Matchweek Eleven. Livonia will begin the month of July on a three game losing streak while Inter has not won a game since May 15 and has also been eliminated from title contention.. Pride will be on the line when both teams attempt to make the most out of their remaining games. 

West Michigan Bearings v. Lansing Common FC (July 7, 2021, 7:00 p.m.)

Matchweek Eleven will conclude with another matchup that could have a serious impact on the East Division table when the West Michigan Bearings host Lansing Common FC in a midweek nightcap. These two clubs have been trending in different directions after they met on May 22.. The Bearings’ 3-2 victory over the Robins was the last time they recorded a win, while Lansing Common went unbeaten in the month of June. Both teams will be looking for a crucial three points when they try to keep pace with division-leading DCFC, who have yet to drop points this season.

Standings

1. Detroit City FC U23 (9-0-0, 27 points in 9 GP)
2. Lansing Common (5-1-1, +9 GD, 16 points in 7 GP)
3. Michigan Stars FC U23 (4-2-2, 14 points in 8 GP)
4. BiH Grand Rapids (4-1-1, +12 GD, 13 points in 6 GP)
5. West Michigan Bearings (3-2-3, 11 points in 8 GP)
6. Inter Detroit (1-4-4, 7 points in 9 GP)
7. Livonia City FC (1-3-7, 6 points in 11 GP)
8. LK St. Clair (0-1-8, 1 point in 9 GP)

Standings (points per game)

1. Detroit City FC U23 (3.00)
2. Lansing Common FC (2.29)
3. BiH Grand Rapids (2.17)
4. Michigan Stars FC U23 (1.75)
5. West Michigan Bearings (1.38)
6. Inter Detroit (0.78)
7. Livonia City FC (0.55)
8. LK St. Clair (0.11)

After a weekend away, Lansing Common FC returns home on Saturday, June 26, to conclude Pride Month with a matchup against BiH Grand Rapids in their first of two games against the Kentwood-based club.

Lansing Common FC earned its second consecutive victory and finished the month of June unbeaten with a 3-2 win over previously-undefeated BiH Grand Rapids at Eastern Stadium. Lansing midfielder Noah Canlas had a stellar performance with two assists and goalkeeper Andrew Nicholsen kept the Robins in the game with a crucial penalty save in the second half.

Head coach Josh Oakley was impressed with the way the team remained focused despite not having some of its regular starters. 

“This team is gaining confidence,” Oakley said. “When you can come out and get a result, three points at home against a very good team without six or seven of our main guys, it just shows the quality of the team and the confidence starting to grow.”

The game was delayed for almost two hours from its original 6 p.m. start time due to inclement weather. After a period of sheltering due to local tornado warnings, both teams were able to take the field and get the match underway at 7:30 p.m.

Oakley started the game with forwards Ty Usiak and Ben Meschke, who started in Omar’s absence. 

In the first 10 minutes of the game, there was an adjustment period as both teams tried to get comfortable on a slightly uneven turf surface due to the accumulation of rubber. The ball was skipping along the ground, making it difficult for players to get a firm first touch. 

BiH Grand Rapids took a 1-0 lead in the 12th minute when forward Chris Mendez received a long ball from his defense, made his way past Lansing defenders Hunter Gibbons and Aidan O’Connor, and shot the ball to the lower-left corner of Nicholsen’s goal. 

“We’re still a bit disappointed with some sloppy play and allowing them to break [our] lines,” said Oakley.

Two minutes later, Lansing was rewarded with a corner kick after BiH goalkeeper Vedad Vila denied Canlas a rebounding effort. Canlas took two corner kicks, and on his second attempt, he found O’Connor, who headed the ball into the goal to level the game at 1-1. 

It was O’Connor’s first goal for Lansing Common FC and a much-needed response from the 6-foot-4 Western Michigan Bronco. 

In the 22nd minute, BiH nearly scored their second goal after a Lansing turnover found the feet of Mendez, whose shot slammed the upper-right corner of the goal post. 

Canlas took a direct free kick in the 31st minute that almost caught Vila by surprise, but the BiH goalkeeper was able to deny Lansing another close opportunity in the first half. 

At the halftime break, Oakley said, “I would like to see us go in and try to get a second [goal].”

“The answer was there today, and the comeback win was special,” he added in his post-match comments. 

Lansing came out of the break with the same players that started the match. Except this time, Estaban Russell and Canlas showed their versatility by switching sides on the wings. 

The switch would prove to be an important one as Russell delivered a great through ball to Dante Morrissette to set up the go-ahead goal in the 56th minute. Morrissette took a touch and then sent a low cross that found its way to Kyle Scott, who put Lansing ahead 2-1 with a composed tap-in finish.

The combination of Morrissette to Scott was on display once again at Eastern Stadium. The pair of fullbacks combined to score the club’s first-ever goal against Fort Wayne SC in early May. 

“We worked really well as a team, and we focused on hitting those chances,” Canlas said. “We had a couple [chances] that we left out today that should have been goals.”

After the goal, Lansing subbed on midfielder Seth Russ for Russell. The former Western Michigan Bronco showed his experience and leadership on the field by creating multiple chances and taking the ball into the opposing 18-yard box.

“When I was given this opportunity to lead the club, some of the first ideas we had were to bring back Esteban Russell and Julian Birge,” Oakley said. “They are in the prime of their lives, and they’re having the time of their lives working with the young guys and putting their stamp once again on another successful soccer club.”

As the rain continued to fall in Lansing, both teams fought for 50/50 balls and continued to force turnovers on each other. 

Another corner kick from Canlas found O’Connor at the 67th minute, but his shot was cleared away by BiH. Lansing showed its enthusiasm for extending the lead. 

After a series of set pieces, Lansing midfielder Julian Birge scored off a corner kick in the 78th minute. Birges’ leaping header made it 3-1 and he recorded his third goal in MWPL action.

Canlas also registered his second assist of the night with his corner delivery to Birge.

“It was a great feeling to score,” Birge said. “It was euphoric, and it’s always fun to celebrate with teammates.”

Exactly a minute later, Lansing conceded a penalty after Scott tackled Nermin Crnkić inside the 18-yard box, and the referee deemed it a penalty. Damir Šabanović stepped up to take the penalty, but Nicholsen dived to the left side of his goal and saved it, keeping the score at 3-1 for Lansing. 

“He [Nicholsen] had a good week of training,” Oakley said. “He also had a solid game against Livonia.”

It would not be the end of the night for BiH as they made it 3-2 at the 89th minute with a goal by forward Ojani Perez. His right-footed shot found the top-right corner of the net after a dangerous attacking sequence.

With five minutes added on by the fourth official, Oakley told his players to keep possession and remain focused on not giving the ball away. 

The referee signaled the end of the game at the 95th minute, Lansing earned the full three points, and an eventful day for the home fans ended in victory. 

Lansing is now 4-1-1 in the MWPL and currently sits fourth in the East Division standings. 

“We know we have to do some things better,” Oakley said. “When we get to the training ground this week, it’s going to be [focused] on defending.”

Lansing will travel to Fort Wayne, IN on July 1 to play USL League 2 side Fort Wayne FC in a friendly before taking on the MWPL East Division leaders Detroit City FC U23 on July 4 at Eastern Stadium in Lansing. Tickets are available for $5 at https://app.gopassage.com/events/lansing-common-jul4

Matchweek Nine continued the trend of blowouts and nail-biters as multiple teams could not find the back of the net, while others found it consistently. 

Detroit City FC and Lansing Common went unbeaten during their two-game sets last weekend, while the woes continued for the clubs at the bottom of the table. Le Rouge scored six times in two games, tying the amount of goals BiH Grand Rapids scored against LK St. Clair (Spoiler: St. Clair did not win that one).

This week, more teams can be eliminated from division title contention, while some can increase their leads over potential contenders. With six games spread across six days, Matchweek Ten will have no shortage of excitement as we close the book on the month of June. 

Here is your Matchweek Ten preview for the Midwest Premier League’s East DIvision. 

Last week’s results

Detroit City FC U23 def. Livonia City FC (2-0)

Detroit City’s U23s kicked off Matchweek Nine with a hard-fought 2-0 victory at home against Livonia. After wearing down the Livonia defense, and having a penalty saved early in the first half, DCFC was able to strike twice in the final 10 minutes to secure their fifth league victory. 

Caio Mazzo got DCFC on the board in the 80th minute after Livonia’s “bend but don’t break” defense finally broke. The match was put away when Le Rouge, smelling blood in the water, kept a high press and earned a penalty in the 90th minute that was slotted into the back of the net by Shion Soga. 

Michigan Stars FC U23 drew v. Lansing Common FC (0-0)

There were chances galore Friday night at Michigan Stars Sports Center, but neither team managed to find a goal as Michigan Stars’ U23s and Lansing Common earned a point each. However, it was the Robins who looked the better of the two sides as their chances kept hitting cross bars instead of the back of the net. 

Splitting the clean sheet for the Stars were goalkeepers Rob Gjelaj and Thomas Howard, while Zac Kelly earned his second consecutive shutout for the Robins. The draw allowed both teams to stay within striking distance of the streaking U23s of Detroit City at the top of the East Division standings. 

BiH Grand Rapids def. LK St. Clair (6-0)

BiH Grand Rapids continued their unbeaten streak with a 6-0 dismantling of LK St. Clair at home. BiH came into the weekend having only dropped points once this season, while also having played the fewest league games thus far.

LK St. Clair was hoping to secure their first victory of the season, but BiH had other plans as they put six goals past the visiting defense in a blitzkrieg-like fashion, including three from Chepe Lopez. Jay Torić earned his third consecutive clean sheet for BiH as they swept the season series against LK, scoring a total of eight goals in the process. 

Detroit City FC U23 def. Inter Detroit (4-1)

In the first meeting between these two Metro Detroit clubs, the advantage went to the visitors as DCFC’s U23s remained unbeaten after three goals in the second half secured the three points for Le Rouge. 

DCFC opened the scoring in the 19th minute with a Bosh Tanyi goal and Inter managed to equalize shortly before halftime to level the game at one. Shion Soga and Keith Larson scored 11 minutes apart, to give the visitors a 3-1 lead by the 75th minute. Waseem Muthana netted an insurance goal in the 90th minute and DCFC rode out of Auburn Hills with three points, completing a perfect weekend and securing the top spot in the East Division. 

Lansing Common FC def. Livonia City FC (2-1)

Matchweek Nine concluded with a gritty 2-1 victory for Lansing Common on the road. Both teams went into the weekend after having played a few days earlier, and both wanting a victory to keep their division title hopes alive. Goals from Eastern Illinois University products Shady Omar and Munir Sherali gave Lansing Common a 2-0 lead heading into the halftime break after a frenetic 45 minutes that could have seen the visitors build a much bigger lead.

Livonia would strike back in the 75th minute when Atef Sikazwe found the back of the net. An electric final 15 minutes ensued as lightning in the area pushed the game inside nearby St. Joe’s Sports Dome. Livonia had their chances but Lansing goalkeeper Andrew Nicholson came through when his team needed him, and Lansing rode away on a stormy Sunday night 2-1 victors. 

This week’s fixtures

Detroit City FC U23 v. LK St. Clair (June 24, 2021, 7:30 p.m.)

Matchweek Ten kicks off Thursday night when LK St. Clair travels to Hamtramck to take on the U23s of Detroit City. DCFC enters the Matchweek in sole possession of first place, while LK sits at the bottom of the table still searching for their first win of the season. If LK fails to pick up a point, they will be eliminated from division title contention, while three points will increase the distance between Le Rouge and their competitors. 

Detroit City FC U23 v. Inter Detroit (June 26, 2021, 4:00 p.m.)

After having played two days prior, DCFC will host Inter Detroit in a reverse fixture from last week, this time at home. In that close contest, Inter became only the second team to score against Le Rouge’s U23s this season, but they would ultimately concede three in the second half in a 4-1 loss. Inter will be looking for their first win in over a month against a DCFC side that will be playing its second game in three days. 

Lansing Common FC v. BiH Grand Rapids (June 26, 2021, 6:00 p.m.)

In a pivotal match between two teams climbing up the table, BiH Grand Rapids will travel to Michigan’s capital city to take on Lansing Common. BiH has kept three consecutive clean sheets, having only conceded once this season, while Lansing Common will look to stay unbeaten in the month of June. Saturday’s nightcap should be a good one as three points for BiH would see them take second place, while a win for Lansing would bring them level with BiH. 

LK St. Clair v. West Michigan Bearings (June 27, 2021, 5:00 p.m.)

Sunday’s action will see the return of the West Michigan Bearings, who were idle last week, when they travel to the east side of the state to take on LK St. Clair. The Bearings, after starting out 3-1-0, have only managed to earn a single point in their past four games. LK St. Clair could potentially be eliminated from division title contention if they fail to pick up a point Thursday against DCFC, but they will attempt to play spoiler and continue being a part of the Bearings recent woes. 

Inter Detroit v. Michigan Stars FC U23 (June 27, 2021, 7:00 p.m.)

Inter Detroit will close out Sunday’s action when they host the Michigan Stars’ U23s at Evolution Sportsplex. After having played the day before, Inter will close out the weekend hoping for a good result against a vibrant Stars side. The Stars are coming off a 0-0 draw against Lansing Common and need three points to continue chasing DCFC. Inter will need a perfect weekend to keep pace with DCFC as well, as their recent performances have seen them fail to pick up any much-needed wins. 

Detroit City FC U23 v. Michigan Stars FC U23 (Wednesday, June 30, 2021, 4:00 p.m.)

Matchweek Ten will conclude with the U23 derby at Keyworth Stadium on Wednesday night. Le Rouge were 2-1 victors in the first meeting between the two sides and have since gone undefeated in league play. The Stars, who sit second heading into Matchweek Ten, will look to get revenge and play spoiler to Detroit City’s hopes of going undefeated. Critical points will be on the line in a match that could have a big impact on the race for the East Division title. 

Standings

1. Detroit City FC U23 (6-0-0, 18 points in 6 GP)
2. Michigan Stars FC U23 (4-2-1, 14 points in 7 GP)
3. BiH Grand Rapids (4-1-0, 13 points in 5 GP)
4. West Michigan Bearings (3-2-3, 11 points in 8 GP)
5. Lansing Common FC (3-1-1, 10 points in 5 GP)
6. Inter Detroit (1-4-3, 7 points in 8 GP)
7. Livonia City FC (1-3-7, 6 points in 11 GP)
8. LK St. Clair (0-1-7, 1 point in 8 GP)

Standings (points per game)

1. Detroit CIty FC U23 (3.00)
2. BiH Grand Rapids (2.60)
3. Michigan Stars FC U23 (2.00)
4. Lansing Common FC (2.00)
5. West Michigan Bearings (1.38)
6. Inter Detroit (0.88)
7. Livonia City FC (0.55)
8. LK St. Clair (0.13)