Otsego traveled to Edwardsburg Wednesday afternoon for a Wolverine Conference matchup with the Eddies. Both teams coming off high scoring mercy rule victories, there were goals in the forecast. The Eddies came out strong and hung 3 on the visiting Bulldogs before the half hour mark. Strong possessive play and attack-minded movement, coupled with slack marking and weak tackling by the Dawgs, allowed the Eddies to control much of the first frame. Addison Atwater hammered home a goal late in the half to close the gap (assist from Ian McClellan).

Otsego knew that the task ahead of them would be difficult, but coming out of halftime there was a renewed focus and energy within the squad. The boys were challenging for every 50/50 ball, passing more efficiently, and attacking with more urgency. The defensive line bent a number of times, but didn't break. Helping the defensive effort was strong play from Midfielder Josh Loll, tracking back to kill off some great attacks by the Eddies. The center back pairing of Ian McClellan and Cole Sallee were strong and connected all evening, and Junior Goalkeeper Jayden Dentler was very good behind them as well. The Bulldogs closed the gap through a Jerin Jameson strike from distance into the bottom left corner of the Eddies' goal. 

Though both teams mounted a few more attacks, the match would finish 3-2 to the hosts. The Dawgs left feeling like they could have done more in the first half, but that they played very well in the second half. This has been the story for the team all season, and it will be a point of emphasis for coaches and players going forward. Addison Atwater earns offensive Mand of the Match honors by getting on the board with his first goal of the year. McClellan and Sallee as a pair were named defensive Men of the Match for their sturdy play and connected partnership in the center of defense. Freshman Jon Reitenour shone brightly in a big spot for his squad with some physical play and excellent passing from outside back. Jayden Dentler made 14 saves, as well as a number of great collections on high crosses in the loss. 

The Dawgs have an extended down period with no match next Monday. South Haven will travel to Bulldog Stadium on Wednesday, September 20th.