Michigan Rangers FC Defeats Akron City FC 1-0

By Michigan Rangers FC

Michigan Rangers FC made their NPSL debut on Friday evening, taking on Akron City FC under head coach Stuart Collins. 

Collins reflected on the club’s inaugural match. 

“Obviously, we are delighted to finally be here and be in the mix at this level,” Collins said.
“It’s a big day for our club and it’s a positive step for everyone involved.” 

Akron City FC was looking to bounce back after suffering a close 2-1 loss to Steel City last weekend.  Michigan Rangers FC’s Daire O’Riordan opened the action as he scored in the 29th minute to give the Rangers a 1-0 lead.  This ended up being all of the goal scoring for the evening, and Michigan Rangers FC would come out victorious in their first NPSL match.

Collins shared his thoughts on his team’s performance.

“We didn’t settle quickly enough and I think we had a lot of nervous energy that we needed to get out,” Collins added. “I was really impressed with Akron tonight.  They had a lot of quality and will do very well this year.  They made things very tough for us and forced us to adapt a few times.  All credit to them.  We must be better and it wasn’t until the last 30 minutes that I felt we started to gain some control of the game.  It was frantic and end to end up to that which we don’t want.  Both teams created good moments in good areas but we could have settled far quicker if we were more clinical in front of goal.  I’m proud of the boys for getting over the line and happy to have three points.”

The Rangers take on Cleveland SC at home this Sunday at 8:00 pm while Akron City FC returns home to host FC Columbus.

Photo Provided by Michigan Rangers FC