Western Michigan Christian falls short in battle of defending state soccer champions

LocalSportsJournal.com

Western Michigan Christian soccer had its back against the wall on Thursday when it faced state-ranked Hudsonville Unity Christian.

The host Warriors, ranked No. 8 in Division 4, fell behind quickly and trailed 4-1 in the second half, but were able to fight their way back to a 4-3 loss to the defending state champs.

WMC has won the Division 4 state title the last two seasons.

WMC’s Luke Maat. Photo/Randy Riksen

WMC squad fell behind 2-0 in the first 15 minutes of the contest, but responded with a Tekalegn Vlasma goal that was assisted by Cole DeJonge.

Unity Christian (6-1-1) responded 30 seconds later and led 3-1 at halftime.

WMC continued to struggle against the Crusaders, falling behind 4-1 early in the second half.

Tyson Annema scored the Warriors’ second goal with nine minutes left in the game on a Mason Bonnema assist. Then, Ryan Riksen put WMC within in one goal on an Annema assist that was set up by Braedon Hoffman.

The Warriors (3-5-2) had one last chance to tie the game on a Vlasma shot that just missed wide in the closing seconds.