The Lakland men's soccer team played host to Owens Community College today in OCCAC action at Laker Field. The Lakers exploded for 3 second half goals to down the Express by a score of 3-0. In the first half, the teams would battle back and forth in a very physical match. Though the Lakers were able to carry much of the play, they were unable to score and so the teams went into the break scoreless. Less than 4 minutes into the second half, the Lakers were awarded a penalty shot and Omar Inga calmly stepped to the line and converted the shot to give the Lakers a 1-0 lead. The two teams would continue to battle with the Lakers holding the time advantage, but unable to convert. That changed with just under 13 minutes to play as Juan Lara headed a crossing pass to Carmen Ningler-Farone. Ningler-Farone wasted no time in converting the pass for a goal and a 2-0 Laker advantage. The games final goal was scored with 5:34 to play as Inga passed a ball from just inside of midfield to Byron Perez. Perez stepped away from the pressure and just beyond the 18 yard line when he ripped a shot past the Express netminder. Till Oppermann posted his second consecutive clean sheet making 5 saves in the Laker win.
Lakeland outshot the Express 10-5.
Ty's Talk: "I was pleased with our overall effort and composure today. It's nice to pick up our first conference win of the season on our home field. Our defensive line continues to play well and their effort allows us to create scoring opportunities. We have a good challenge coming up this weekend. We'll have a couple of good days of practice and then come out ready to play on Sunday."
Next Up: The Lakers travel to Livonia, MI on Sunday (9/15) to face off against the Schoolcraft Ocelots. Kickoff is scheduled for noon.
