Lansing Common FC secured its first win of the season Sunday evening, beating Michigan Jaguars FC 2-0 in a game that featured the club’s Juneteenth recognition night.
“I thought today was better communication, guys were more locked in,” said defender Kevin Payne. “We kind of have a motto – ‘don’t lose two games in a row.’ Just come in and focus, never fall asleep and get the result.”
After a disappointing performance against West Michigan Bearings SC last weekend, Lansing Common rebounded against the Jaguars with their most complete team performance of the season. From starters to substitutes, there were plenty of excellent performances around the pitch on the night.
Forward Jack Voight scored Lansing’s first goal of the evening at the 39th minute. Forward Ty Usiak launched a beautiful cross 40 yards down the pitch, setting the table for a first-touch missile from Voight just 15 yards out.
In his debut game as a Robin, forward Guershom Sylvain notched Lansing Common’s second goal of the night.
Subbed on for Ramzi Shaheen in the 59th minute, it didn’t take long for Sylvain to make his mark on the game. Earning a corner in the 76th minute, midfielder Munir Sherali crossed the ball just over the front of the net. Payne headed the ball back toward center and Sylvain finished the play by nodding the ball past the Jaguars’ keeper.
“It felt really good, especially for the fans,” said Sylvain. “When I first got the signing, I felt I had a lot of support from the fans. I’m just really happy to put some smiles on the fans’ faces.”
Despite the one-sided score, the match was a fairly competitive affair, with each team applying offensive pressure throughout. However, Lansing Common’s defense made the difference.
Ethan Brandt earned a clean sheet in net, his first of the season. Lansing Common’s defenders heavily contributed to the clean sheet, making key tackles and clearing dangerous scoring chances throughout the 90 minutes.
Payne was especially effective on the backline, anchoring the defense and notching an assist on Sylvain’s goal.
“It’s not easy to get a clean sheet,” said Payne. “You can’t take a play off – it’s every play.”
Up next for the Robins
Lansing Common’s next match is an MWPL road game against Detroit Union, with kickoff set for 7 pm on Wednesday.
The Robins next home game is Saturday, June 18 at 6 p.m. against Cedars FC which is also Pride Night at Eastern Stadium. Tickets are just $5, available online and at the gate. Special Pride shirts will be available for purchase with all proceeds being donated to the Salus Center in Lansing. For those who can’t make it to gameday, the match will be streamed live on YouTube.
