FC Motown Defeats Jackson Lions FC 3-2

By FC Motown

In front of a packed crowd at Drew University, FC Motown thrillingly celebrated their home opener with a 3–2 comeback win over rivals Jackson Lions FC, marking their second victory of the 2025 NPSL season.

Motown came out aggressive, and in the 18th minute, Chris Bermudez, a former USL Championship standout, found the net after a deflected shot rebounded back to him in the box. Bermudez showed great composure to slot it home and give Motown the early 1–0 lead.

Jackson answered in the 44th minute with a goal from James Wason, assisted by former MLS SuperDraft pick and ex-Motown forward Joe Fala.  The Lions carried that momentum into the second half, taking a 2–1 lead in the 50th minute through Dante Perez, a former Rutgers standout.

But FC Motown refused to back down.

In the 74th minute, Yusuf Cuecoglu slotted home the equalizer, igniting the crowd.  And just four minutes later, following a dangerous free kick into the box, and a chaotic sequence of deflections, Erick Ruiz — a former Red Bull Academy product and key contributor in last year’s national final run — smashed in the game-winner in the 78th minute.

Despite Jackson’s late push, backed by a strong outing from veteran goalkeeper Matt Perella, Motown’s defense held firm to secure all three points.

Player of the Game honors went to El Medhi Youssoufi, a constant threat down the wing.  His pace, creativity, and relentless energy drove Motown’s attack and played a crucial role in keeping the pressure on Jackson throughout the match.

With the win, FC Motown improves to 2-0 on the season and continues building momentum in their quest for another Keystone East Conference title.

Photo Credit: FC Motown