Lansing Common FC kicked off its 2023 campaign in winning fashion, by knocking off Troy United 4-0 in a friendly match on Saturday, May 13 at Eastern Stadium.

Lansing Common dominated the contest from start to finish. By dominating possession and creating a bevy of scoring opportunities, the Robins picked up right where they left off in 2022, and only want to continue improving upon the Saturday result. The 2022 season was one to remember for the Robins, as the club finished with 6 wins, 2 losses, and 2 draws, good for second place in the Midwest Premier League’s Eastern Conference.

“We have some real quality, through and through. Our guys showed that,” said head coach Brent Sorg. “We are lacking in some areas that we know we have to be better in phases of the game, but to get a clean sheet and a 4-0 result is a good start to the season.”

The Robins’ first goal of the 2023 season came off the foot of Northwood University defender Luke Kalavitz, courtesy of a deflection off Troy goalkeeper Thad Petty that led to an easy finish by Kalavitz.

Lansing Common quickly added to its lead in the 26th minute, as Brandon Dixon would bury a header into the top right corner of the net, making it 2-0.

Dixon played locally for Haslett High School before traveling overseas and spending time in several different countries. He started six games for Belgrade United FC and scored four goals during his time with the Serbian club.

The Robins opened the second half right where they left off, as a turnover in the midfield led to a Robin counterattack, with forward Fady Omar leading the charge, increasing the lead to 3-0.

The fun wouldn’t stop, as Lansing was awarded a penalty in the 58th minute. Tony Burton was selected to take the penalty kick, and calmly put it in the back of the net to salt the game away.

New midfielder Jack Beck, who played his college soccer at Michigan State University, has already become a valuable piece for this Lansing Common squad.

“Jack is steady. He brings an element of calmness to the game, but also a very intelligent player, coaches guys, is smart in the locker room. I thought he was very good,” head coach Brent Sorg said.

“It’s fun. I came to a lot of these games and watched them as a player at Michigan State in the summers, and being a part of it is fun and energetic. It was good to get the first win,” said Beck.

Lansing Common FC will host one more friendly on Friday, May 19 at 7:00 pm versus Northville United at Eastern Stadium. Tickets are just $5 online when purchased through the Fanbase Clubs app or $7 at the gate.