Orange Legionnaire

Carbon Copy: Dutch Lions and Michigan Bucks both come into this game with 20 points, winner takes closer step to PDL playoffs and Great Lakes Division title.

The Dayton Dutch Lions (5-1-5, 20 points) enter this game looking to extend their winning streak to two straight games as they face off against the Michigan Bucks (6-2-2, 20 points) with the divisional title and PDL playoffs at stake. The Dutch Lions will feel confident going into this contest; as the Dutch Lions defeated the Michigan Bucks in late May at the Bucks indoor facility. Further, the Dutch Lions come off one of their best weeks with two solid performances against the Cincinnati Kings and Chicago Fire.

The Michigan Bucks are also in the title and PDL playoff hunt. However, the Bucks were only able to get a tie last night against Forest City London (6-1-3, 21 points), another contender, which narrows the race for the Great Lakes Division title even more so; as neither the Bucks or Forest City London could capture a vital three points.

The Dutch Lions and Michigan Bucks both need wins, not ties. The Dutch Lions will be bolstered by the return of Bret Jones and Johan Wigger who will likely start for the first time in months. The return of these two pivotal players will hopefully offset the loss of Geert den Ouden. Further, Dutch Lions Head Coach Sonny Silooy is confident that Hans van de Haar can fill in at Geert's position.

Here is what Sonny is looking for in this game:
"We know how dangerous the Michigan Bucks are. But, we'll play our same system. We'll play offensive. But, we'll play a little bit smarter than we did in the beginning of the season. And I hope we can play like the Cincinnati and Chicago games, and that's also good for the spectators."

Defensive midfielder Johan Wigger is raring for his first start since injury:
"I told Sonny when I came back from Holland, I wanted to play every match despite any sort of injury. First game back I had an injury. But, I'm ready to go now. I want to play, I always want to play."

Every game for the Dutch Lions is pivotal from here on in and the Dutch Lions will be looking for their fan support once again. The Dutch Lions are looking to celebrate "Orange, White, and Blue" on July 3rd at 7:30 p.m. with you before the "Red, White, and Blue" Independence day festivities on July 4th. Please be there to cheer loud and to back the Dutch Lions.



Go Lions!