Sunday evening, in front of 3,701 fans at Cass Tech, Detroit City FC took down in-state rival Lansing United, 1-0. As the referee blew the final whistle, the record-breaking crowd erupted, as the boys in rouge and gold had climbed their way to the top of the Midwest table.
The energy didn’t pick up until the tail end of the first half, but once it did, it never let down.
In the 38th minute, following one of the best individual goals of the season, Cass Tech went into delirium. City forward Will Mellors-Blair (Michigan), at the center circle, flicked the ball over a Lansing defender, turned to run, and sprinted to goal with the ball at his feet. With unbelievable pace, Mellors-Blair outran four United defenders and slotted the ball past Lansing goalkeeper Quinn McAnaney, putting DCFC ahead by one.
Mellors-Blair’s individual effort was the highlight of the night, and the Wolverine was named the M1 Imaging Man of the Match for his performance.
As the first half came to a close, a thundering, point-blank header from Lansing forward Matt Brown was saved by Alex Bouillennnec (Saginaw Valley State), a crucial stop from the towering City goalkeeper.
United hadn’t been shutout in a NPSL game since May 22, their first of the season, but Bouillennec and Le Rouge’s defensive corps held strong, refusing to let Lansing find success.
Despite a goalless second half, the final 45 minutes were nothing short of exciting. Until DCFC midfielder Jeff Adkins (Butler) was subbed out, he relentlessly pressured Lansing’s left flank. After just 10 minutes, Adkins already had three shots on goal, each a bulleting strike from outside the box.
A sold-out stadium, a miraculous goal, a shutout win and a first place standing all made for an unforgettable night at Cass Tech.
DCFC returns home July 11 against the Michigan Stars. Get your tickets online at https://www.detcityfc.com/tickets.
– Ted Janes / DCFC Writer
