Lansing, MI – Lansing Common FC’s four-match winning streak came to an end on Friday evening, as the Robins fell to ThunderCats SC 1-0 at Eastern Stadium.
It was a defensive slugfest on the Robins’ home turf and the home team couldn’t find a goal against a cross-division opponent playing in a 4-1-4-1 formation.
“We really struggled in the first half to maintain possession, and just manufacture anything,” said head coach Brent Sorg. “Our set pieces were not good tonight. We didn’t hit certain areas that we needed to, so that was disappointing.”
Despite the home loss, Sorg was confident that his players can bounce back and get ready for their next opponent.
“We will hit the reset button,” Sorg said. “We get a nice break for the 4th of July, and everybody can clear their mind from the game. We’ll bounce back and will be hungry next week.”
Lansing Common had plenty of scoring opportunities to put themselves in front, including two shots by Ameer Shetiah inside the box at the end of the first half that were unable to cross the line.
Photo credit: Donté Smith
A match filled with possession-focused, defensive play broke open in the 75th minute when ThunderCats forward and former Michigan State men’s soccer player Colin Arce gave his team the late lead.
The Robins gave themselves another chance in the 90th minute with a late corner kick, but failed to capitalize before the final whistle.
Lansing Common FC is now 5-1-2 on the season, with 16 points in the Midwest Premier League Great Lakes West Division.
“They dominated us, but we just have to learn from this and let it motivate us,” said defender Kevin Payne. “We just have to stay positive, and staying compact and together as a unit. I’m going to look at the film and stay in it. I might take 1 or 2 days off to recharge, but it is definitely motivating.
Lansing Common FC will continue its homestand on Saturday, July 8th, with a Great Lakes West Division showdown against Tulip City United SC at Eastern Stadium. Kickoff is scheduled for 6:00 pm. Tickets are just $5 online when purchased through the Fanbase Clubs app or $7 at the gate.