LC Aris FC Falls to Dakota Fusion FC

By Jamie Colvill/Dakota Fusion FC 

After the 5-1 defeat to Duluth FC the last time out, the Dakota Fusion looked to bounce back against a competitive LC Aris side that has already caused teams problems throughout the 2023 NPSL season. 

Dominant from the starting whistle, the Fusion got off to a fast start with Yu Tsukanome scoring his fifth goal of the season.  Confusion in the box by the Aris players allowed Tsukanome to attack an inviting cross from Mate Lengyel to make it a 1-0 lead for the Fusion.  Continuing with their fast start, Shoki Yoshida was next on the board to give the Fusion a 2-0 advantage and his second goal in two games.  After a short stalemate with both teams possessing the ball, LC Aris came close with a long ball over the top that created confusion between their opponent’s center backs and goalkeeper.  However, the ball was scrambled away and the 2-0 score line was maintained. The Fusion made it 3-0 before halftime with defender Ben Colborn scoring from a dangerous corner, provided by Lengyel for his second assist of the night. 

The second half started with a high-pressing Aris side as they looked to chase a 3-0 deficit.  Aris goalkeeper Sean Marshall came off injured early during the second half, and Aris brought on Jacob Havlik who would look to shut the Fusion out.  However, this proved not to be the case as Lengyel added to his two assists with a headed goal from an impressive long throw by Ethan Bishop to make it a 4-0 lead for the Fusion. 

The remainder of the game saw scrappy play by the LC Aris players, but it only led to two more goals by Tsukanome to complete his hat trick and give Dakota Fusion a convincing 6-0 victory.

The win keeps Dakota Fusion in second place behind Duluth FC in the NPSL’s North Conference with a record of 3-1-1.  The Fusion play Joy Athletic Club on Wednesday, June 14 as they hit the midway point of their season. 

Photo Credit: Beth Garten/Dakota Fusion FC