RENSING NOTCHES CAREER WIN NO. 150 AS SPARTANS EDGE DETROIT MERCY 1–0

Jonathan Turner
Sep 2
2 min read

NATIONAL SOCCER NEWS: www.nationalsoccernetwork.com

RENSING NOTCHES CAREER WIN NO. 150 AS SPARTANS EDGE DETROIT MERCY 1–0

Freshman Luke Spadafora scores first collegiate goal in milestone victory

EAST LANSING, Mich. — Michigan State men's soccer head coach Damon Rensing reached a major career milestone Monday night, earning his 150th career victory as the Spartans defeated in-state rival Detroit Mercy 1–0 at DeMartin Stadium.

The win came on the back of a second-half goal from freshman Luke Spadafora, who tallied his first collegiate score in the 63rd minute. The forward capitalized on a rebound from a blocked shot and calmly slotted the ball past the Titans' keeper to give Michigan State the lead.

“It’s always special to get your first goal, and to help coach get win number 150 makes it even better,” said Spadafora after the match. “I’m just glad I could contribute tonight.”

The match was marked by physical play throughout, with Detroit Mercy eventually reduced to 10 men following a red card issued after a second yellow late in the second half. Despite the man advantage, the Spartans were forced to withstand several late pushes from the Titans but ultimately held firm to secure the result.

With the win, Rensing improves to 150-111-50 in his 17 seasons at the helm of the Spartans. A two-time NCAA College Cup participant as head coach, Rensing was quick to credit the broader MSU soccer community.

“It's a reflection of the great players, assistants, and staff I've had the privilege to work with,” Rensing said. “I'm grateful to be part of such a special place like Michigan State.”

The Spartans improve to 2-0-1 on the season and will return to action later this week against Bowling Green.