EAST LANSING – On a night when Michigan State men’s soccer honored America’s favorite soccer coach, Ted Lasso, the Spartans found a way to win, getting a late penalty kick from junior Sean Kerrigan to secure a 1-0 victory. While pitch conditions may not have been ideal to some, Kerrigan, an Ireland native, said the steady rain throughout was ideal for him.
“In this weather, there’s more chance of me scoring a goal than when the sun is out,” said Kerrigan. “This is perfect weather for playing football.”
The first half saw little action, with no shots on goal for the entirety of the first 45 minutes. While the field conditions were wet and that likely played a factor, the defense for both sides played exceptional.
Into the second half, MSU’s defense continued to play well, limiting the Dayton offense to forced, uneven shots on goal.
“To me, the whole key is the shutout,” said Michigan State head coach Damon Rensing. “If you don’t give up goals, you’ve got a chance to win.”
Barbecue Sauce!!
Highlights from tonight's 1-0 #VictoryForMSU over Dayton… it was a defensive battle in the rain, but the Spartans emerged victorious on #TedLassoNight at DeMartin!!#DeMartinDefended pic.twitter.com/6oiyvuPG8e
— MSU Men's Soccer (@MSU_MSoccer) September 8, 2023
Michigan State’s starting defensive backs of freshman Will Eby, senior Elijah Howe, and sophomore Jeremy Sharp made it very difficult for the Dayton offense to get good looks. Sharp made key plays throughout the game to continue his very strong start to the season.
“This is a complement to Jeremy, this was probably his weakest game…and he was still good,” said Rensing. “He’s been great for us, and arguably our most consistent player.”
With No. 20 Notre Dame up next, the Spartans will have some work to do to get the best of the Irish.
“Notre Dame is a very good team, we know them very well and they know us,” said Rensing. “Notre Dame will be a great test to prepare us, and get us ready for our first Big Ten game against Rutgers.”
Michigan State’s next contest will take place next Tuesday, Sept. 12 against Notre Dame in South Bend, Indiana. Kickoff will be at 8 p.m. EST.
