MSU men’s soccer opens 2022 season against Army West Point

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MSU midfielder Jack Beck/ Photo Credit: MSU Athletic Communications

Luca Melloni, Sports Editorial Assistant
August 26, 2022

EAST LANSING – The Michigan State men’s soccer team opens its season at home against Amry West Point on Friday, Aug. 26. The Spartans’ last exhibition game was a hard-fought friendly against No.7 Pittsburgh that finished 1-0 in favor of the Panthers, and head coach Damon Rensing says his team is ready for Friday’s opener.

“I feel good about our group,” Rensing said after Thursday’s practice. “I know that Army is really well coached, Brian Plotkin does a good job and it’s going to take a good effort from our team [to win].” 

The game against Army will be the start of a three-game homestand for the Spartans. Preseason ranked No.4 Notre Dame and Western Michigan University visit East Lansing on Aug.29 and Sept.1, respectively. 

Last season, Army placed sixth in the Patriot’s League and secured a spot in the conference tournament. They scored 31 goals throughout the 2021 season and had an 8-7-3 overall record.

Although MSU lost its last two exhibition games against Butler and Pittsburgh, senior defender and captain Will Perkins said the feeling of being back at DeMartin Stadium on opening night never changes.

 “It’s almost like the first day when I first got here,” Perkins said. “We’re excited to play the first game and then see what we have for the rest of the season.” 

Perkins was one of three MSU players listed on the Big Ten preseason players to watch list. The others are captain Jack Beck and forward Greyson Mercer. 

“I’m looking forward to us beating some big teams and watching us grow as a team,” Perkins said. “Personally, I hope I can get in with the goals and just have a good season.” 

Kickoff against Army is scheduled for 7 p.m. on Friday, Aug.26.