STARTING OFF HOT!! CRUNCH DOMINATE SEASON OPENER!!!

 Muskegon, Mi


                                                (photo courtesy of the Cleveland Crunch)

      The Crunch came into the 2022 MASL 2 season with high expectations, and a target on their backs. They also had a point to prove in their 2022 season opener against division foe Muskegon Risers. The Crunch were out to prove that last seasons' championship run was no fluke and they are ready to defend the "Land" and their title all season long.


The first quarter started off slow, but that all changed when Ryan Minick found the back of the net with an assist from the "Captian" himself David Jordan. Sami Mutemwa would cash in for the Crunch later in the first to tie the game at 2-2 at the end of one period. 


With goals by Jordan(4), Mutemwa, Beck(2), and Minick the Crunch would take a 6-3 lead going into half time. The Risers would battle back in the second half, but it wasn't enough as the Crunch would finish the game with a 8-5 win and confidence going into the home opener next week. We spoke with Crunch head coach Lou Kastelic for his thoughts on the opening win.

" We are a very deep team with tons of talent. We needed this win to build on what we did last year and make sure everyone on this team that steps on the field is always elevating their game and pushing each other to get better. We completely understand that defending a championship is a lot harder than chasing one."


Keep in mind that the Crunch were the highest scoring team in MASL 2 last season averaging 12.5 goals a game while only giving up less than 5 goals a game thanks to the league M.V.P. Marijo Musa Guarding the net. If this win was any indication, I wouldn't expect the Crunch to have any drop off on the scoring end. 


The Crunch step back on the field next weekend (Jan 15th) as they welcome in the Risers for a rematch in the 2022 home opener for the Crunch in the friendly confines of the Soccerplex in North Olmstead, Ohio. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at www.theclevelandcrunch.com/tickets.


~IT'S CRUNCH TIME!!~

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