If there was a Flint Metro League Classic sports channel, the first place battle between Lapeer East and Oxford’s Varsity soccer teams would be shown quite often.
On Sept. 30, the Eagles and Wildcats battled to a 1-1 tie in a match that saw both teams create numerous scoring opportunities.
After not scoring in the first half, the Wildcats thought they scored first, but the goal was disallowed because the Wildcat’s were offside. This came after both teams clanked two shots off posts and crossbars earlier in the game.
The Eagles finally broke through, scoring with less than ten minutes left in the second half on a set play.
The Wildcats immediately responded with a goal after getting a direct free kick for obstruction. Senior Captain Travis Roth set up Senior and fellow Captain Matt Versteeg, who curved the shot into the far post to tie the game at 1-1.
‘Both teams played outstanding tonight and it will be a game to remember,? said Head Coach John Thaler.
Saturday’s non-league contest against Waterford Mott also ended in a 1-1 tie. Sophomore goalkeeper Kyle Hartwick made seven saves in the game and Sophomore Marco Bonfiglio scored the Wildcats? only goal in the first half.
The Wildcats should have recorded their third tie of the week against Swartz Creek, but a disallowed goal from Junior Matt Frisch proved to be the difference in a 2-1 loss.
Oxford got the jump on Swartz Creek early when Senior Steven Ferguson scored early in the half. Swartz Creek was able to respond with two goals in the first half.
Oxford drops to 4-2-1 in the FML. They play Linden on Wednesday before traveling to Carman-Ainsworth on Thursday. Their final FML game is at Holly on Monday, Oct. 12.