In Detroit, Oakland University men’s soccer took down the University of Detroit Mercy 2-1, winning the inaugural Metro Series and securing their first win of the season.

“It feels great, for it to come against a huge rival like Detroit makes it all the more special,” Oakland head coach Eric Pogue said.

The Golden Grizzlies dominated the game offensively, outshooting the Titans 18 to 10. However, Detroit struck first in the second half.

The Golden Grizzlies broke down the Titans defense again and again, but could not put the ball in the back of the net. It was not until the 85^th minute that the team’s hard work and perseverance paid off. Off of a rebound, Shaun Claud Lawson tied the game — sending it into extra time.

In the second half of extra time, Oakland’s luck seemed to turn around. A foul on Lawson gave the team a free kick in scoring position. A free kick that caused midfielder Matt Dudley’s eyes to widen.

“I thought, you know what, have a shot, see if it goes in,” Dudley said.

His shot sailed right into the top corner, just out of the reach of UDM goalkeeper Nathan Steinwascher. Dudley’s late-game heroics were met by a bench clearing dog pile at midfield.

“Confidence has been low around campus, we just needed a win,” Dudley said.

In a hard fought game, Pogue was proud and hopes it will get the ball rolling for the rest of the season.

“Would have been nice to not have to wait till second overtime to put that away,” Pogue said. “I think it took a few years off my life.”