Detroit City Wire

Detroit City FC advanced to the Central Conference Final after defeating River Light FC 3-0 on July 5, 2024.

Le Rouge took an early lead in the fifth minute when Kate Childers' long ball found Lilley Bosley, who scored with a first-time effort. Despite continuous pressure on River Light's goal, DCFC struggled to extend their lead initially.

River Light had their first opportunity in the 14th minute with a header that went high and wide. Aubree Ciampa responded for DCFC by forcing a fingertip save from the River Light goalkeeper with a powerful shot from 20 yards out.

River Light maintained possession for ten minutes but failed to trouble DCFC’s goalkeeper Gabby Schriver. In the 34th minute, Schriver made a crucial save from a dangerous shot. Moments later, Lily Jeakle had an opportunity but couldn't direct her chance on target.

The final ten minutes of the first half saw River Light dominate possession without creating significant chances. Kayla Addison had the last chance of the half for DCFC but was tackled before she could shoot.

At the start of the second half, DCFC continued their offensive efforts. In the 48th minute, Jeakle forced another save from River Light's goalkeeper. Devin Lynch responded for River Light in the 56th minute by earning a corner through Mackenzie Anthony.

Schriver made another critical save in the 61st minute when Anthony shot towards her bottom corner. Le Rouge extended their lead in the 68th minute through Lily Jeakle’s header from an Emily Pagett corner.

DCFC maintained pressure as Ella Kane set up Jeakle again in the 73rd minute, though without success. Kane then assisted Pagett for DCFC’s third goal in the 77th minute with a strike into the top left corner.

In response, River Lights launched long balls at DCFC’s backline but failed to break through as Le Rouge secured their first USLW playoff victory.

DCFC will face Indy Eleven this Sunday for a chance to become Champions of the USLW Central Conference and earn a spot in the National Semifinal.

Detroit City Starting XI: Gabby Schriver (GK), Ella Offer (83’), Acadia Murphy, Maia Soulis, Drew Martin (80’), Kate Childers, Lilley Bosley, Emily Pagett (80’), Aubree Ciampa (65’), Kayla Addison (65’), Lily Jeakle (83’)

Goalscorers: Bosley 5’, Jeakle 68’, Pagett 77’