Lansing Common FC (6-3-2) returns to action at 6:00pm on Saturday, July 22, at Eastern Stadium in a showdown with Livonia City FC (6-2-3). The match will conclude the 2023 Midwest Premier League season for both clubs. The Robins will finish no lower than third in the Great Lakes West Division with a win or draw.

Lansing (6-3-2) had their division title hopes vanquished after a 2-2 draw with division-leaders West Michigan Bearings (8-3-1) on July 14. The Robins concluded the weekend against title-contenders 1927 SC (7-3-1) in a high-octane Sunday matinee that ended in a 3-3 draw. 1927 SC will overtake the Bearings for the division title with a win against United West (1-1-9) on Sunday, July 23.

Despite the results, Lansing midfielder Julian Birge acknowledged the team’s resilience throughout the season and noted the improvement of his side. 

“I think we’ve grown a lot,” said Birge. “The maturity on the field, decision-making, … I think a lot of guys will take this and do well going into their college seasons especially after having the opportunity to play here.”

Livonia City FC comes to Eastern Stadium after battling back from a two-goal halftime deficit last weekend against Great Lakes East Division runners-up Liquid Football (7-2-2). Livonia City scored twice after the break to earn a 2-2 draw in their penultimate match of the season.

The Robins have never dropped points against Livonia City and lead the all-time series 3-0-0. However, despite last season’s 2-0 win, two out of the last three matches between these sides were decided by a single goal. 

With third place on the line, Birge, as well as the rest of the squad, noted the importance of ending the season on a high note.

“We need to go out there and leave it all on the field,” said Birge. “I know that’s what I’m going to do and I know everyone else will do the same to get the win.”

Tickets for Sunday’s matinee match at Eastern Stadium are just $5 online through the Fanbase Clubs app or $7 at the gate.

Fans are encouraged to bring donations of school supplies and non-perishable items to the merchandise table as part of Lansing Common’s “Robins Flock Back to School” program.