Game Results

Steven Topper making a save while warming up prior to the match. Kyle Miller played brilliantly as the main keeper for this shut-out match. Kyle Miller during team introductions.

Okemos High School Varsity Boys Soccer traveled to Jackson on Wednesday, October 05, 2005 and played against a strong team from Jackson High School. The game was played on a warm October night under the lights and Jackson started quickly with an attack up the right wing and a cross into the Okemos box that was scooped up by Okemos keeper Kyle Miller. Miller was called into action shortly afterward as Jackson continued to attack the Okemos goal. Faread Jamalifaard (#10) dribbled deep into the Jackson box before his shot was saved by the Jackson keeper. Jason Storey (#4) took a free kick for Okemos which was also saved by the Jackson goalie. Adam Jordan (#9) dribbled into the center of the Jackson box before letting go another shot as Okemos continued to press for a goal. Jackson was awarded a free kick just outside the 18-yard box but the resulting shot was high of the mark. Ben Skole (#2) provided lots of hustle for Okemos as Jackson worked to clear the ball out of their half. Alex Potter (#11) found Omar El-Hussieny with a fine cross (#10) whose shot was wide of the net. Omar then played a nice ball through to Ben Skole whose close range shot was saved by the Jackson keeper. Okemos continued to get scoring chances with a shot taken by Alex Potter and were whistled for offsides on more than one occasion. Faread Jamalifaard dribbled past a defender before crossing the ball in to Anthony Earley (#23) but his shot was wide of the net.

Omar El-Hussieny going up for a nice heading attempt early in the 1st half.

Okemos continued to pester the Jackson defense and Omar El-Hussieny had his header just miss the post off an Okemos free kick. Kyle Miller stepped up to clear a ball played into the Okemos box as Jackson tried to push players forward. But Brandon Brown (#22) played a ball forward to Anthony Earley who scored for Okemos on a hard shot that found the corner of the net. Earley almost scored again in a span of a few seconds as a ball was played through to him but his shot was saved by the Jackson keeper. Faread Jamalifaard showed his dribbling skills beating several Jackson defenders before the ball was played into touch. David Shaheeen (#8) made a fine run up the left wing and crossed a ball into the Jackson box but the resulting shot from Omar El-Hussieny was wide of the mark. Ben Skole pushed forward getting past a Jackson defender and his shot from close range was initially blocked by the Jackson keeper. But Anthony Earley got his second goal of the match when the ball came loose and he pushed it into the back of the net. Okemos continued to dominate play at both ends with Jason Storey and Brandon Brown providing solid defensive stops to keep Jackson off the ball. Kyle Miller stepped up to clear a ball played into this box and Anthony Earley almost got his hat trick when he dribbled past a Jackson defender but his shot flew over the net. Tony Hassan (#3) stole the ball for Okemos on defense and pushed it back into the Jackson end as the 1st half came to a close.

Anthony Earley winning a ball deep in Jackson territory before driving to the net for his first goal of three.

The 2nd half started with Jackson pushing players forward and a nice defensive play from Jason Storey to clear the ball back into the Jackson end. Omar El-Hussieny appeared to be taken down inside the Jackson box but no foul was called and the ball was pushed back into the Okemos end. Ben Skole dribbled deep into the Jackson box before passing the ball off to Phil Glaub (#12) whose shot was saved by the Jackson keeper. Jackson managed a shot at the other end but it was high of the mark. Phil Glaub made a nice run up the wing before crossing the ball to Omar El-Hussiengy whose shot was just wide of the mark. Jason Storey played a long ball forward that Anthony Earley one touched past the Jackson defense and beat the keeper for his third goal and a hat trick in the match. Jackson countered with an attack of their own forcing Kyle Miller to scoop up the ball inside his box. Brandon Brown and Tony Hassan worked tirelessly on defense to win balls and clear their lines. Ben Skole found himself one-on-one with the Jackson keeper on a breakaway but both players collided and the Jackson keeper stayed on the pitch before being replaced. Okemos continued to attack and Jesus Perez-Flores (#5) dribbled up the right wing before crossing the ball into the box. Kyle Miller again scooped up a ball in the Okemos box before launching it back into the Jackson end.

Phil Glaub working the ball up the right mid-field on a nice attack.

Okemos won a free kick and Alex Potter lofted a ball into the Jackson box that Omar EL-Hussieny headed past the keeper but it slid just wide of the post. David Shaheen worked the ball up the wing and won Okemos a corner kick, but the resulting Okemos shot was saved by the Jackson keeper. Okemos won an indirect free kick when one of their defenders impeded Ben Skole but the shot taken by Omar El-Hussieny was high of the mark. Ian Sinclair played a ball up the middle of the field that split two Jackson defenders and Anthony Earley ran onto it but his shot was wide of the net. Omar El-Hussieny then flicked a ball onto Anthony Earley whose shot was high of mark. Jackson managed a shot of their own but Kyle Miller made a nice save in the Okemos net. Mike Williams (#20) and Josh Crites (#6) both stepped up on defense for Okemos as Jackson pressured for a goal. Jonathon Kagey (#14) stole the ball and dribbled deep into the Jackson box before his cross was pushed out of play. Okemos continued to control play and had more chances to score, including a shot wide by Anthony Earley and also from David Shaheen. Ian Sinclair found Drew Loud (#19) whose shot was high of the mark. Then Ian Sinclair got a sweet unassisted goal after beating a Jackson defender and blasting the ball into the corner of the net. Kyle Miller was called into action at the Okemos end and made two nice saves in the net, including punching a ball out of the box, to keep the shutout. Jonathon Kagey had a go from long range but his shot was wide of the mark. Mike Williams defended well for Okemos as Jackson continued to push their players forward and Kyle Miller made another save in the Okemos net as the game ended.

Final score: Okemos 4, Jackson 0
Saves in goal by Miller: 0 first half, 4 second half
Okemos record: 9-2-2, CAAC 5-1-0

Next game for Okemos Boys Varsity: vs. Lansing Sexton on 10/10/05 at the Lansing Hope Soccer Complex @ 5:00 pm. Note the earlier starting time and the change in Location.

Rod Sanford | Lansing State Journal, Oct. 2, 2005 Homecoming court: Okemos Homecoming Queen Sarah Horsch and Homecoming King Omar El-Hussieny walk off together under the lights Friday night after being introduced with the rest of the homecoming court on the football field at halftime of Okemos' game against Holt.

Okemos Defeats Grand Ledge 4:0 at Home
September 28, 2005
Photos

Phil Glaub about to deliver one of his corner kicks in the 1st half.

Okemos met Grand Ledge HS on an overcast Wednesday at home and the game got underway with Okemos attacking quickly. Phil Glaub (#12) scored for Okemos off an assist from Omar El-Hussieny (#10) in the first minute of play. Ben Skole (#2) pushed forward on offense pressuring the Grand Ledge (GL) defense and Alex Potter (#11) put in a nice cross but no one in an Okemos uniform could get to the ball and it was pushed back to the midfield. Omar El-Hussieny had another shot that was saved by the GL keeper, as Okemos continued their attack. Phil Glaub continued to push up the right wing winning a throw in for Okemos and Omar El-Hussieny got his head on the ball before it was cleared out by the GL defense. Faread Jamalifaard (#13) dribbled deep into the GL box before passing the ball off to Alex Potter whose shot was just high of the net. Omar El-Hussieny then crossed the ball back into the box where Ben Skole’s shot was saved by the GL keeper. Phil Glaub made another fine run up the right wing and crossed the ball into Omar El-Hussieny who headed the ball past the keeper for a second Okemos goal in the 8th minute of play. Grand Ledge finally got their attack going before Brandan Brown (#22) stepped up to win the ball for Okemos and played it back into the GL end. Okemos continued to push for another goal and Alex Potter had put in a nice corner kick that was cleared off the goal line followed by another ball played in off a free kick that was blocked by a GL defender. Jason Storey (#4) provided solid support on defense to thwart a GL attack before being fouled by a GL player.

Faread Jamalifaard going up for his header that found the back of the net.

Faread Jamalifaard got a third goal for Okemos on a fine ball launched into the GL box by Jason Storey off a free kick. Okemos continued to dominate play at both ends as Faread Jamalifaard dribbled into the GL box before passing the ball to Omar El-Hussieny who flicked the ball past the keeper but it glanced off the far post. Ian Sinclair (#21) picked up the loose ball and crossed it back into the GL box before it was cleared out by one of their defenders. At the other end of the field, Rand Cosetello (#18) stepped up to win a ball and dribbled it back into the GL half. Okemos continued to win free kicks off GL fouls and Josh Crites (#6) got deep into the GL end before the ball was played out of touch. Ian Sinclair made another nice run up the left wing before the ball was cleared. GL won a free kick just outside the 18-yard box and a quick shot taken was high of the net. Okemos kept the ball in the GL end for the remainder of the half, with Alex Potter finding Faread Jamalifaard who dribbled deep into the box before the ball was pushed behind the goal. On another GL foul and an Okemos free kick, Jason Storey had a go at goal which was saved by the GL keeper. Sam Peters (#17) provided solid midfield play for Okemos and Tony Hassan (#3) stepped up several times on defense to win balls before the half ended.

Jason Storey & Tony Hassan going up for the header.

The 2nd half saw more strong play from Okemos as Ben Skole dribbled up the middle of the GL end before the ball was played out. GL counter attacked with a shot that was high of the mark followed by another shot that was saved by Steven Topper in the Okemos goal. At the other end, Faread Jamalifaard crossed the ball into the GL box but it was just out of the reach of an Okemos attacker. Okemos won two more free kicks on GL fouls and Jason Storey launched the ball into the GL box before it was saved by their keeper. Omar El-Hussieny had another shot that was high of the net off a cross into the GL box from Jason Storey. Ian Sinclair and Adam Jordan (#8) worked hard in the Okemos midfield to win the ball and play it back into the GL end. Faread Jamalifaard dribbled through several GL players before his shot was high of the net. On an Okemos corner kick taken by Alex Potter, Omar El-Hussieny’s header was just wide of the net followed by a cross into the box by Ben Skole and another shot from Omar that hit the post and was quickly pushed behind the goal by a GL defender. Jason Storey and Brandan Brown stepped up to win balls played into the Okemos box.

Josh Crites and Adam Jordan shutting down an attack in the midfield.

Play got a little physical resulting in a yellow card shown to a GL player on a tackle of Alex Potter. GL counter attacked and Steven Topper made another save in the Okemos net off a shot from close range. GL managed another shot that was high of the net before Omar El-Hussieny dribbled into the center of the GL box but his shot was saved by the GL keeper. Omar continued to be a thorn in the GL defender’s side when he had another header off a crossed ball slide just wide of the target. But his persistence finally paid off when Anthony Earley (#23) beat the GL keeper with a fine shot off an assist from Omar El-Hussieny. Tony Hassan stepped up to win a ball for Okemos before dribbling into the GL half. Steven Topper collected a ball played into his 18-yard box before clearing it back into the GL end. Ian Sorenson-Abbott (#7) won a ball for Okemos on the right side before it was cleared out of play. David Shaheen (#8) stepped up for Okemos in the midfield, winning loose balls and pushing the play back into the GL box. Jesus Perez-Flores (#5) and Drew Loud (#19) provided solid play for Okemos in the midfield and on attack. Steven Topper made another save in the Okemos net before Drew Loud’s shot flew over the GL goal. Anthony Earley worked hard on offense to keep the ball in the GL end as the game ended.

Final Score: Okemos 4, Grand Ledge 0
Saves in goal by Topper: 0 1st half, 3 2nd half
Okemos record: 8-2-2 overall, CAAC record 4-1-0

Next game for Okemos Varsity: Away at Jackson on 10/05/05
Note: there is a change of venue from the High School to the Middle School at Parkside, 2400 4th St. Map to Parkside Middle School.

Great Rivalry Ends in Tie; OHS vs. Brighton 1:1
September 26, 2005
Photos
News report, Livingston Co. Daily Argus Press, Sept. 27, '05

A familiar scene: Ben Skole getting grabbed by a BHS defender as he attempts to penetrate the BHS goal box. Refs were very stingy w/ their whistles...

A very hard fought match @ Brighton ended in a tie after both teams had numerous opportunities to score right to the final seconds. Few fans were sitting at the end of the evening.

Okemos High School Varsity Boys Soccer played at Brighton High School on a crisp autumn evening and it was another classic match. The two teams have some history, including the past two year’s when Okemos knocked BHS out of the state tournament and won the district title.

Okemos pushed forward off the opening kick and Alex Potter (#11) and Adam Jordan (#9) controlled the ball in the midfield. Faread Jamalifaard (#13) dribbled into space before passing off to Ian Sinclair (#21) who made a nice run up the wing. Brighton won the ball and crossed it into the Okemos box forcing Steven Topper to scoop up the ball in the Okemos net. Phil Glaub (#12) stole the ball in the Okemos half and pushed it up the left wing before Okemos got a shot that was cleared out by the Brighton keeper, Mitch Howell. Tony Hassan (#3) stepped up for Okemos on defense to thwart a Brighton attack but their persistence paid off with a shot that was saved by Steven Topper. At the other end, Omar El-Hussieny (#10) managed a shot off a breakaway but it flew over the net and out of play. Brighton scored first off a ball played into the Okemos box that found Colin Eaton who shot the ball past Steven Topper and found the net. Brighton continued to press Okemos and Jason Storey (#4) stepped up early and often to clear balls back into the Bright half. Omar Eh-Hussieny dribbled deep into the Brighton half but lost the ball and it was played back into the Okemos end. Brighton kept control of the ball, playing it around the back before Brandan Brown (#22) stepped up and won it for Okemos. Brighton managed another shot that was saved by Steven Topper followed by another save as Brighton kept the ball in the Okemos end. Okemos worked hard on defense, as Brighton kept attacking, with nice play from Jason Storey and Ian Sinclair. Brighton took another shot which was high and then Phil Glaub made a nice run for Okemos. Tony Hassan and Sam Peters (#17) stepped up for Okemos on defense as the game got more intense and physical.

Some of the brave and cold OHS fans in the bleachers; thanks for coming!

Brighton kept the ball well, passing it back and forth, and forcing Okemos to chase it. A ball was played into the Okemos box and Steven Topper stepped up to catch it and launch it back into the Brighton end. Phil Glaub passed the ball to Ben Skole (#2) who found Omar El-Hussieny but the Brighton defense stepped up to clear the ball out of their end. Ben Skole worked tirelessly fighting for every loose ball and Brighton launched another long shot that was scooped up by Steven Topper in the Okemos goal. The Brighton pressure continued forcing a fine save from Topper off a cross and a header into the box. David Shaheen (#8) worked in the Okemos midfield dribbling and passing the ball forward where Ben Skole pushed deep into the Brighton box before the ball was cleared out of play. Okemos passed the ball better, with Faread Jamalifaard and David Shaheen working a nice give-and-go before Ben Skole took the ball into the Brighton box and it was cleared out of play. On the resulting throw in, Omar El-Hussieny got a nice header that was saved in the Brighton net by their keeper. Okemos kept the pressure on Brighton as the first half came to an end, with Faread Jamalifaard passing the ball to Omar El-Hussieny before the Brighton defense cleared it out.

Steven Topper making one of many saves from a free kick.

The 2nd half got underway with Brighton attacking up the middle of the field forcing Jason Storey to clear the ball out. Omar El-Hussieny took the long ball and dribbled deep into the Brighton box before the ball was cleared. Tony Hassan took an Okemos throw in and found Omar El-Hussieny but the resulting shot was caught by the Brighton keeper. Adam Jordan took a shot from distance but it was high of the mark. Ian Sinclair won the ball for Okemos on defense and played it back into the Brighton half. Brighton kept the pressure on with a cross into the Okemos box but couldn’t manage a shot. Steven Topper made a fine save on a shot that hit the post and came back out to a Brighton attacker. Topper made another save diving on the ball before he was fouled by two Brighton players resulting in an Okemos free kick. Adam Jordan pushed into the Brighton end and found Omar El-Hussieny whose header was saved by the Brighton keeper. Alex Potter stepped up for Okemos on defense and pushed the ball back into the Brighton end. Okemos got their own attack going forcing Brighton to clear the ball out of their box. A quick counter attack forced Steven Topper to catch the ball before sending it back into the Brighton end. Okemos won a corner kick and Brighton again struggled to clear the ball back into the Okemos half. Tony Hassan won the ball for Okemos on defense and passed it forward to Phil Glaub who found Ben Skole in the corner of the Brighton box. Ben crossed the ball in and Omar El-Hussieny’s header was saved by the Brighton keeper.

Phil Glaub making a great run up the right wing.

Brighton countered with an attack of their own forcing Steven Topper to scoop up a ball played into the Okemos box. Alex Potter dribbled into space before passing the ball to Ben Skole, who got it to Anthony Earley (#23), who passed it to Omar El-Hussieny. Omar dribbled into the Brighton box before laying the ball off to Ben Skole whose shot was high of the mark. Okemos kept pressure on the Brighton goal forcing a nice clearance off the goal line by a Brighton defender. Faread Jamalifaard won the ball for Okemos before finding an Okemos player as they kept control of the ball in the Brighton end. All the Okemos pressure finally paid off when Ben Skole took a long ball and dribbled past two Brighton defenders and beat their keeper with a hard shot that found the back of the net equalizing for Okemos. Energized by the goal, Omar El-Hussieny pushed forward before Brighton launched it into the Okemos end. Brighton had a nice shot that was saved in the Okemos goal by Steven Topper as both teams worked for the winning goal. Alex Potter found Anthony Earley who passed the ball to Adam Jordan but his shot was saved by the Brighton keeper. Anthony Earley then had a go from distance but his shot was high of the net. An Okemos cross found the head of Omar El-Hussieny but his shot was saved by the Brighton goalie. Faread Jamalifaard dribbled deep into the Brighton box before passing the ball off to Ben Skole who dribbled past a Brighton defender but his shot glanced off the post. Okemos had another scoring chance late in the game when Omar El-Hussieny got off a header that was just wide of the net. Ben Skole had one final scoring chance for Okemos when he again dribbled into space but his shot was wide of the mark as the game ended.

Final score: Okemos 1, Brighton 1
Saves by Topper: 3 first half, 3 second half
Okemos record: 7-2-2 overall

Next game for Okemos Varsity: Grand Ledge @ Home on 09/28/05

Okemos Defeats Grand Haven 2:1 at Home
September 23, 2005
Photos

Adam Jordan pushing the ball thru the midfield.

Okemos met non-league Grand Haven High School on a sunny Friday afternoon at the Okemos High school field. Okemos pushed forward from their first touch on the ball and attacked the Grand Haven (GH) goal. Faread Jamalifaard (#13) made a fine run up the left wing before his shot was saved by the GR keeper. Sam Peters (#17) and Tony Hassan (#3) stepped up for Okemos on the defensive end and pushed the ball back into the GH half. Ian Sinclair (#21) dribble dup the right wing before crossing the ball to Faread Jamalifaard whose shot was blocked by a GH defender. Grand Haven had their own attack forcing a save in the Okemos net from Steven Topper. Alex Potter (#11) took a shot from long range which was saved by the GH keeper as Okemos continued to control the ball in the midfield. Phil Glaub (#12) dribbled up the right wing and crossed the ball into the GH box but it was again cleared by their defenders. Okemos continued to keep the ball and attack up both wings as GH fought to defend their net. Jason Storey (#4) stepped up for Okemos to win the ball on defense before sending it back into the GH end. Omar El-Hussieny (#10) got off a nice header that was just wide of the net as Okemos continued to push for a goal. Steven Topper was called into action in the Okemos goal as a GH attacker shot from long distance. The teams traded throw in's as the game got more physical and both teams fought for every loose ball.

A GH player was shown a yellow card resulting in an Okemos free kick but they could not get off a shot as the GH defense again stepped up to clear the ball out of play. Tony Hassan won the ball on defense and pushed forward before playing the ball to Brandon Brown (#22) who dribbled into the GH box. Omar El-Hussieny dribbled past a GH defender before playing the ball off to Anthony Earley (#23) whose shot was saved by the GH keeper. Grand Haven counter attacked with a shot that was high of the net. Okemos got another scoring chance when Omar El-Hussieny took a shot from in front of the GH net before it was saved by the GH goalie. Tony Hassan and Jason Storey both worked hard to win the ball on defense and Ian Sinclair came back to steel the ball from a GH player before pushing it back into their end. Phil Glaub made another fine run up the wing before crossing the ball to Alex Potter who shot was wide of the mark as the first half ended.

Fans were pumped up & prepared!

The 2nd half saw Kyle Miller move into the goal for Okemos and Grand Haven crossed the ball into the Okemos box but could not get a shot off. Alex Potter pushed the ball forward and David Shaheen (#8) dribbled deep into the GH end before getting off a shot that was high of the net. Grand Haven scored when a player shot the ball from distance and Kyle Miller made an initial save, but the ball hit the cross bar and fell at the foot of a GH player who lofted it into the back of the net. Okemos continued to press forward at every opportunity as Phil Glaub made a nice run up the right wing before crossing the ball to Omar El-Hussieny whose header was inches wide of the post. Alex Potter dribbled deep into the GH box before his shot flew wide of the goal. Another Grand Haven player was shown a yellow card and Okemos won a free kick as the ball was played into the box by Ben Skole and Omar El-Hussieny shot it but it was saved by the GH keeper.

Jason Storey stepped up again on defense to win the ball before playing it back into the GH half. Kyle Miller pushed forward to clear a ball on a GH counter attack and then made a fine save in the Okemos goal to keep the score close. Ian Sinclair pushed up the right wing before crossing the ball to Alex Potter, whose shot missed on the high side. Okemos continued to press for the equalizer as Grand Haven packed players into their box and defended their goal with vigor. GH pushed the ball forward on a counter attack forcing another nice save from Kyle Miller in the Okemos goal followed by Ian Sinclair clearing the ball off the line when it was played back across the goal mouth. Okemos kept

Anthony Earley finishing off his 1st goal.

attacking the GH half and finally got the equalizer when Ben Skole dribbled deep into the GH box before passing the ball right in front and Anthony Earley blasted it into the back of the net. Energized by the goal, Alex Potter dribbled into the GH box and passed the ball off to Tony Hassan whose shot was saved by the GH keeper. Omar El-Hussieny had a header to Anthony Earley whose shot was high of the net as Okemos continued to press for the go ahead goal. Omar and Anthony worked together again when Omar El-Hussieny headed the ball to Anthony Earley who dribbled into space and found the corner of the net to put Okemos ahead in the match. Grand Haven pushed forward on attack and Phil Glaub stepped up for Okemos winning the ball before dribbling it deep into the GH end. Phil received the ball running up the right wing but his shot hit the side of the net only missing by inches. Okemos continued to press for another goal and almost got one when Omar El-Hussieny blasted a shot that hit the post before it was cleared out by the GH defenders and the match ended.

Final score: Okemos 2, Grand Haven 1
Saves in the first half by Topper: 3, Saves in the 2nd half by Miller: 5
Okemos record: 7-2-1

Next game for OHS: Away at Brighton on 09/26/05 at 7:00 pm
Note the later starting time on this match

Okemos 1 - Lansing Eastern 0
September 21, 2005
Photos

Sam Peters, sophomore, attacking in the midfield & coming up with the ball.

Okemos defeated a tough and determined Lansing Eastern team 1:0 on Wednesday night in Lansing. Eastern packed in on defense for most of the game which proved very frustrating for Okemos. The game was tied 0:0 at the half but Okemos got the winning goal early in the 2nd half on a corner kick and a scrum in front of the Eastern net, when Ben Skole got the ball and blasted it into the corner of the net. Okemos had other chances to score but couldn't find the net and Eastern played a classic counter attacking game right until the end.

Final score: Okemos 1, Lansing Eastern 0
Saves by Topper: 2 first half, 2 second half
Okemos record: 6-2-1, CAAC record: 3-1-0

Next game for Okemos Varsity: @ Home vs. Grand Haven HS on 09/23/05
Note the 5:00 pm start time on this game

Okemos Defeats Saline 2:1
September 19, 2005
Photos

Ben Skole, junior, taking it to the Saline defense early in the 1st half. Ben gets the coveted "Photographer's MVP Award" for this match.

Okemos High School Varsity Boys Soccer got back on the winning track by defeating a disciplined and tough Saline team 2:1 on Monday night. Saline came into the game ranked #4 in Division 1 as the game got underway on an overcast afternoon in Okemos. (To give due credit to the players, it should be noted that 8 players, mostly starters, were out due to injury or sickness for this match) Okemos started quickly with a run up the left wing by Ben Skole (#2) and a shot that was high of the net. Ben followed this up with another fine run up the wing and a shot that was also wide. Saline counter attacked forcing a save in the Okemos net from Steven Topper. Shortly afterward, Ben Skole was tackled inside the Saline box and the referee awarded Okemos a penalty kick.

Omar El-Hussieny, senior, placing his PK into the lower left 90 corner of the net.

Omar El-Hussieny (#10) took the PK and scored to put Okemos ahead in the match. Ian Sinclair (#21) provided passing and dribbling in the midfield as Okemos continued to push the ball into the Saline half. Jason Storey (#4) stepped up for Okemos on defense and Saline got a shot that was wide of the mark. David Shaheen (#8) dribbled up the left wing before passing the ball to Ben Skole whose shot was wide of the net. David and Ben worked tirelessly in both ends of the field as Okemos kept control of the ball and continued to attack the Saline goal. Saline were awarded a free kick but the resulting shot was high of the net. Omar El-Hussieny took a quick shot off an Okemos free kick but it was saved by the Saline keeper. Saline pushed forward with another shot that was wide of the net followed by a save in the net from Steven Topper. Okemos won their own free kick but the ball was quickly played back into the Okemos half and Topper made another save in net for Okemos. Adam Jordan (#9) kept the ball for Okemos in the midfield before passing it back to a defender. Ian Sinclair made a run up the wing before his shot was saved by the Saline goalie. Saline finally seemed to get their feet and began passing the ball better but Okemos were awarded a free kick and Adam Jordan stepped up to thwart a Saline attack for Okemos.

Jason Storey chasing down a Saline attack which he converted to an attack of his own w/ a long ball to Ben Skole who took it all the way to the back of the net.

Saline quickly countered forcing another save in the Okemos net from Steven Topper. Michael Williams (#20) stepped up to clear a ball out of the Okemos half as Saline kept pushing forward. Ian Sinclair took another shot that was saved by the Saline keeper off another Okemos free kick. A Saline forward dribbled deep into the Okemos box before his point-blank shot was saved by Steven Topper. Jason Storey then played a long ball that Ben Skole ran onto beating the Saline defense and their keeper to give Okemos a two-goal lead in the match. Saline quickly counter attacked forcing some confusion in the Okemos defense that was eventually straightened out by Steven Topper who scooped up the ball and cleared it back to the midfield. Topper stepped up to catch another ball played into the Okemos box before Ben Skole had another shot that was high of the net. Ian Sinclair won the ball in midfield and found Omar El-Hussieny whose shot was high of the net. Saline pushed the ball forward quickly forcing another save in the Okemos net from Steven Topper. Ben Skole and Anthony Earley (#23) provided hustle for Okemos as they fought for every loose ball. David Shaheen took an Okemos free kick and found Omar El-Hussieny who passed the ball to Ben Skole but his shot was saved by the Saline keeper. The half came to an end when Saline lofted a high ball into the Okemos net which was caught by Steven Topper but he was bumped by two Saline players before being awarded a free kick.

The 2nd half started much like the first with Okemos playing from the opening whistle with vigor and hustle. Jason Storey stepped up to clear a ball in the Okemos half and Ian Sinclair worked hard to win it at the midfield. Saline pushed most of their players forward and got off a shot that was high of the net followed by a corner kick and a shot that was saved by Steven Topper. Saline's persistence paid off when they crossed a ball into the Okemos box and it was shot into the corner of the net giving Saline a goal. Brandon Brown (#22) stepped up for Okemos on defense winning the ball and passing it forward. Steven Topper collected a ball played into the box and Jason Storey stepped up again to provide a key defensive clearance for Okemos. David Shaheen got off a nice shot from an Okemos free kick that was saved by the Saline goalie. Saline continued to play the ball into the Okemos box forcing another save in the Okemos goal from Steven Topper. Ian Sinclair found Ben Skole whose shot was saved by the Saline keeper. Saline kept pushing the ball forward on attack forcing another save from Steven Topper as Okemos worked hard to keep the ball out of their half.

David Shaheen, senior, making one of many nice defensive & offensive plays late in the 2nd half.

Rand Costello (#18) stepped up for Okemos on the defensive end clearing the ball out of their half. Saline had another scoring chance get away when they crossed the ball in front of the Okemos goal but no one was there to get off a shot. Saline were awarded a free kick just outside the Okemos box but the resulting shot was high of the net. Steven Topper caught a ball played into the Okemos box before sending it forward to Ben Skole who dribbled past one Saline defender before the ball was played out of touch by another. Saline won the ball back and forced another fine save in the Okemos goal from Steven Topper. Omar El-Hussieny and Ben Skole worked a nice give-and-go for Okemos as the entire team worked hard to keep the ball in the Saline half. But Saline pushed almost everyone forward at each dead ball working hard to get the equalizer. Josh Crites (#6) stepped up big for Okemos to win the ball before playing it back into the Saline half. Ian Sinclair stole the ball in the Saline half but his shot was high of the mark. Davind Shaheen crossed the ball into the Saline box and Ben Skole headed it toward the net but it was saved by the Saline keeper. Omar El-Hussieny took the ball and dribbled deep into the Saline box before the ball was played out by a Saline defender. Okemos worked hard to keep the ball in the Saline end, with David Shaheen dribbling it into the corner before winning a throw in for Okemos. Rand Costello won the ball for Okemos on defense and cleared it back into the corner as time expired.

An article in the Towne Courier published on 09/25/05 described the win against Saline.

Final score: Okemos 2, Saline 1
Saves by Topper: 5 first half, 5 second half
Okemos record: 5-2-1

Next game for Okemos Varsity: Away @ Lansing Eastern HS on 09/21/05

Okemos wins one, loses one at Mason Invitational Tournament
09/17/05

Game #1 - Okemos 2 Mason 0
Photos

Steven Topper making a huge save early in the match vs. Mason.

The first game got underway on an overcast Saturday morning at the Mason High School Football field. Mason had an early chance when they played a ball into the Okemos box but Steven Topper caught it and played it back into the Mason end. Mason kept the pressure on forcing Tony Hassan (#2) to step up for Okemos on defense. Brandon Brown (#22) and Sam Peters (#17) both helped in the Okemos defense as Mason won a free kick. David Shaheen (#8) stole the ball for Okemos before playing it up the wing. But Mason counter attacked forcing another catch by Steven Topper in front of the Okemos net. Omar El-Hussieny (#10) flicked a ball onto Anthony Earley (#23) whose shot was high of the net. Sam Peters stepped up again in the Okemos midfield to win the ball and an Okemos shot was saved by the Mason keeper.

Tony Hassan making a big clear out of the OHS end of the field.

Tony Hassan and Jason Storey (#4) provided solid defensive play for Okemos followed by two free kicks, one that was headed by Omar El-Hussieny high of the mark. David Shaheen again stole the ball in midfield and dribbled up the wing before passing to Brandon Brown. Ian Sinclair (#21) made a nice run up the right wing before crossing the ball to Omar El-Hussieny who scored on a sharp header that found the back of the net. Ian made another run up the wing before crossing the ball and forcing a corner kick for Okemos. Okemos controlled play in the midfield, passing the ball around before Omar El-Hussieny crossed it into the Mason box. Omar then played the ball forward to Alex Potter (#11) whose header was saved by the Mason keeper. Mason counter attacked forcing a nice save in net by Steven Topper. The game got more physical as an Okemos player was tacked inside the box but there was no call. Topper made a save on a point-black shot before the ball was cleared out of play for a Mason throw in. Ben Skole (#2) made a fine run up the right wing before crossing the ball to Omar El-Hussieny whose shot was just wide of the net. Okemos kept the pressure on Mason as Alex Potter dribbled into space before letting a shot go that was saved by the Mason keeper. Rand Costello (#18) stepped up for Okemos on the defensive end clearing a ball back into the Mason half. Steven Topper was again called into play to clear a ball out of the Okemos box and then a Mason forward shot wide of the net as the first half ended.

Ian Sinclair making one of many attacks against Mason.

Okemos started quickly in the 2nd half with Ian Sinclair making a fine run up the left wing and forcing another tip over from the Mason keeper to give Okemos a corner kick. Steven Topper made an early save in the Okemos net before Mason had another shot that was wide of the mark on a free kick. Ian Sinclair continued to work hard pusing the ball up the wing before crossing the ball to Omar El-Hussieny who flicked it onto Anthony Earley whose shot was high of the mark. Mason counter attacked quickly forcing a diving save in the Okemos goal by Steven Topper. Ben Skole dribbled up the wing before passing it to Omar El-Hussieny who scored his second goal of the match for Okemos. Energized, the Okemos players pressed play forcing Mason into turnovers. Adam Jordan (#9) and Brandan Brown worked hard in the midfield controlling play and distributing the ball into the Mason end. But Mason continued to push forward and Steven Topper made another save in net to keep Mason off the scoreboard.

Alex Potter making a nice chest trap in the 2nd half.

Alex Potter passed the ball to David Shaheen who dribbled forward for Okemos. Jason Storey stepped up several times to clear balls out of the Okemos box as Mason pushed to score. Steven Topper had another save in the Okemos net as both teams worked hard to keep control of the ball. Tony Hassan stole the ball on defense for Okemos and dribbled up the wing before passing it off to Omar El-Hussieny who beat the Mason defense but his shot was saved by the Mason keeper. The teams traded throw ins before Ben Skole took the ball up the wing and crossed it to Adam Jordan whose shot was high of the net. Omar El-Hussieny then dribbled deep into the Mason box before pass the ball to Ben Skole whose shot was saved by the Mason keeper. Ian Sinclair dribbled up the wing before passing back to Tony Hassan who shot the ball from distance but it was again saved by the Mason keeper as the game ended. An impressive win by Okemos over a team ranked #1 by the Michigan High School Soccer Coaches Association in Division II.

Saves by Topper: 3 in the 1st half, 5 in the 2nd half
Okemos record: 4-1-1

Game # 2 - Okemos 0 Traverse City West 3

Okemos was put under pressure early and often in this match and Tony Hassan (#3) provided solid defensive support. Steven Topper stepped up to scoop up a ball played into the Okemos box and Traverse City West (TCW) continued to pressure the ball. TCW played another ball into the box and a quick shot found the back of the net in the 3rd minute of the match. TCW continued to push forward forcing Jason Storey (#4) to clear a ball out of the Okemos box. Steven Topper came forward on another ball played into the Okemos box and made a strong block saving a 2nd goal. Topper was called into action again when a ball was played back forcing him to kick it out of play. Okemos were on their heels as TCW continued to push forward but Steven Topper made a save on a point-blank shot to keep the ball out of the net. David Shaheen (#8) stepped up for Okemos on defense clearing the ball back into the TCW end. TCW pushed forward again but their resulting shot was wide of the mark.

Alex Potter dribbled into the TCW half and was tackled but no foul was called. Omar El-Hussieny (#10) had a shot for Okemos but it was saved by the TCW keeper. TCW kept pressuring the ball and another shot flew over the net. Omar next played a ball forward to Anthony Earley (#23) who passed it back to Tony Hassan but his shot was wide of the net. Ben Skole (#2) made a nice run up the wing but his shot was saved by the TCW goalie. Ian Sinclair (#21) provided hustle for Okemos as the game grew more physical. Steven Topper made another save in the Okemos net and the ball was launched back into the TCW half. Adam Jordan (#9) stepped up for Okemos in the midfield but TCW quickly counter attacked with another shot high of the mark. Steven Topper jumped to catch a ball played into the Okemos box and their counter attack was underway. But TCW took control of the ball and Jason Storey stopped a strike attempt before the ball was played out. TCW got their 2nd goal on a precision pass to a forward who one touched it before blasting it into the corner of the net. Tony Hassan pushed the ball up the wing before passing it to Ben Skole whose shot was wide of the mark. Josh Crities (#6) provided solid defending for Okemos as TCW counter attacked and the half ended.

TCW came out attacking in the 2nd half forcing Jason Storey and other Okemos players to defend their 18-yard box. TCW won a free kick and the resulting shot was wide of the net. Okemos fought to win a throw in but their shot missed the mark. Jonathon Kagey (#14) stepped up for Okemos on defense as TCW continued to push players forward. A TCW forward dribbled into the Okemos box and unleashed a hard shot that found the corner of the net. Steven Topper cleared a ball played into the Okemos box as TCW kept the pressure on Okemos. Topper made several saves in net as Okemos struggled to keep the ball.

David Shaheen provided hustle for Okemos fighting for a loose ball in the midfield. Ben Skole raced back to steel the ball for Okemos before pushing it back into the TCW end. Okemos won a free kick but their shot was saved by the TCW goalie. Steven Topper scooped up a ball played into the Okemos box before clearing it back into the TCW half. Tony Hassan won the ball for Okemos and played it forward to Ben Skole who made a nice run up the wing before passing it off to Ian Sinclair. But the TCW defense cleared the ball out of play and Okemos had a throw in. TCW continued to push forward with another shot that was wide of the mark. Okemos won a free kick but couldn’t manage a shot as time expired.

Saves by Topper: 4 in the 1st half, 7 in the 2nd half
Okemos record: 4-2-1

Next Game for OHS: At Home vs. Saline on 09/19/05

Okemos Defeats Lansing Everett 2:1 at Home
September 14, 2005
Photos

Senior keeper, Steven Topper, making one of many clutch saves vs. Everett.

Okemos High School Varsity Boys Soccer defeated CAAC opponent Lansing Everett High School in a closely fought match on Wednesday, September 14, 2005. The game got underway on a bright autumn afternoon with Okemos controlling play and passing the ball from the midfield up the wings. Lansing Everett fought hard to win control of the ball and there were plenty of whistles and free kicks awarded by the referee. Jason Storey (#4) provided support in the Okemos defense clearing an early ball back into the Everett end. Omar El-Hussieny (#10) had an early header off a cross saved by the Everett keeper as Okemos got their offense going. But Everett counter attacked forcing Jason Storey to head the ball back to Steven Topper in the Okemos net. Anthony Earley (#23) made a nice run up the wing before crossing the ball to Alex Potter (#11) whose shot was high of the mark. Steven Topper stepped up to scoop up a ball played into the Okemos box before launching it back into the Everett end.

Senior Tony Hassan about to launch the ball upfield.

Tony Hassan (#3) stole the ball for Okemos on defense before passing it forward and then Faread Jamalifaard (#13) dribbled up the left wing before the ball was played out by the Everett defense. Omar El-Hussieny had another shot from a nice header that was saved by the Everett keeper and Adam Jordan (#9) shot from outside the 18-yard box but it was high of the net. Steven Topper again scooped up a ball played into the Okemos box as Everett tried another attack. Adam Jordan had another go from distance for Okemos but his shot was wide of the net. Everett dribbled deep into the Okemos end before their shot was also wide of the mark. Okemos was called for several offsides by the line judge before Omar El-Hussieny flicked a ball onto Ben Skole (#2) but the attack was also whistled for an offside. The game got more intense when Phil Glaub (#12) was tackled from behind and the Everett player was shown a yellow card for the infraction. Okemos kept the pressure on Everett with a nice cross into the box and a header that was saved by the Everett keeper as the half ended.

Junior Ben Skole nutmegging an Everett defender

The 2nd half started much like the first, with Okemos controlling play in the midfield and constantly pushing forward on attack. But Everett continued to push forward themselves forcing Steven Topper to make an early save in the Okemos net. Ben Skole made another run up the right wing before the ball was scooped up by the Everett keeper. Steven Topper came out to clear a long ball played into the Okemos box and Ian Sinclair (#21) was taken down by an Everett player inside their 18-yard box resulting in a penalty kick. Omar El-Hussieny took the PK and placed the ball into the corner of the net to give Okemos the lead. But it didn’t last long as Everett were themselves awarded a free kick just outside the Okemos 18-yard box and the ball was deflected into the Okemos net off the resulting kick for the equalizer. Ben Skoke made another fine run up the wing before crossing the ball into Omar El-Hussieny but his shot was high of the net. Steven Topper stepped out to clear another long ball in the Okemos net and Jason Storey took control of the defense providing solid support and strong play. Alex Potter played a nice give-and-go with Ian Sinclair up the left wing before the ball was played out by Everett. Ian then made a nice cross in to Alex Potter but his shot was just wide of the net.

Adam Jordan took the ball for Okemos on defense before pushing it forward into the Everett half. Alex Potter dribbled past two Everett defenders before launching a shot that was saved by the Everett keeper. Steven Topper again was called into play on an Everett counter attack and then Alex Potter had another go off a cross that was saved by the Everett goalie. Okemos had consistent pressure on the Everett goal resulting in several crossed balls and corner kicks, but they couldn’t seem to find the net. Jason Storey and Steven Topper both provided solid support for Okemos on the defense end before Omar El-Hussieny’s shot was saved in the Everett net. Ben Skole made another nice run up the wing before crossing the ball to Omar El-Hussieny whose header beat the keeper and found the net to again give Okemos the lead. Everett came back with their own pressure, forcing nice plays on defense from Jason Storey and Tony Hassan. Omar El-Hussieny dribbled deep into the Everett box before going down but no foul was awarded and Everett counter attacked forcing a corner kick. A fine shot from close range was saved by Steven Topper in the Okemos goal. A subsequent Okemos foul just outside the 18-yard box gave Everett another chance but the wicked shot was parried away by Steven Topper for another Everett corner kick. Everett kept their attack going before a shot was blocked by an Okemos player and time ran out ending the game.

Final score: Okemos 2, Lansing Everett 1
Saves by Topper: 1 first half, 5 second half
Okemos record: 3-1-1, CAAC record: 2-0-1

Next game for Okemos Varsity: Mason Tournament on 09/17/05

Okemos Varsity Boys Soccer played Midland Dow H.S. on a hot and sunny September evening in Midland, Michigan. Okemos got two (2) goals from Omar El-Hussieny (#10) and one from Alex Potter (#11), off a cross from Ian Sinclair (#21) after Omar headed the ball up, a Midland defender cleared it out and Alex volleyed it straight back into the net. Kyle Miller played in goal for Okemos.

Final score: Okemos 3, Midland Dow 2
Saves by Miller: more information to come
Okemos record: 2-1-1
CAAC record: 1-1-0

Next game for Okemos Varsity: Lansing Everett @ Home on 09/14/05

Tony Hassan making a brilliant trap while marking EL's Peter Houston. Click for more game photos...

Okemos Loses 0:3 vs. East Lansing
September 7, 2005
Photos

Okemos High School Varsity Boys Soccer lost a closely contested match to East Lansing on Wednesday, September 7, 2005. The game got underway on a sunny Wednesday evening in East Lansing and Okemos keeper Steven Topper was called into action early and often as EL played several balls into the Okemos box. Brandon Brown (#22) provided solid defensive play for Okemos, as did Phil Glaub (#12), as Okemos fought to get the ball out of their end. EL won a free kick but the resulting ball was easily scooped up by Steven Topper. Okemos won their own free kick but the ball was picked up by the EL keeper and cleared. Peter Houston of EL streaked forward on a breakaway but Steven Topper made a fine save in the Okemos net. EL had a throw in and another shot that was saved by Topper. Alex Potter (#11) provided help as a sweeper as Okemos tried to clear the ball into the EL end. But EL attacked again with Peter Houston taking another shot that was saved by Steven Topper. There was a scrum in front of the Okemos box before the ball was finally cleared back into the EL half. EL continued to pressure the ball and had another shot slide wide of the net.

Faread Jamalifaard (#13) took the ball in the midfield before letting a shot go that was just wide of the EL net. Tony Hassan (#3) stole the ball from an EL attacker before playing it back into the EL end. Jason Storey (#4) and Faread Jamalifaard both provided defensive help as EL kept pushing the ball into the Okemos half. Omar El-Hussieny (#10) won a free kick which was followed by a corner kick as Okemos finally got their attack going. Ian Sinclair (#21) dribbled deep into the EL box but his shot was wide of the net. Alex Potter made a key tackle for Okemos on another EL attack up the middle of the field. Tony Hassan and Ian Sinclair both worked tirelessly to thwart EL attacks before playing the ball back to the midfield. Okemos got a free kick but a resulting shot was wide of the net. The game got more physical as both teams fought for loose balls and several free kicks were awarded before EL had another shot that was high of the net. Conner Patterson played a key role for EL as their sweeper taking control of the EL defensive end and pushing the ball forward to start another EL attack. EL had another shot from long range go wide of the mark before Ian Sinclair was tackled from behind but there was no foul called. Okemos won another free kick but the resulting shot was saved by the EL keeper as the first half ended.

The 2nd half saw more spirited play by both teams, with East Lansing continuing to push forward on attack. Peter Houston had a shot go wide of the net before EL was whistled for a player being offside. EL kept the pressure on, with another shot that was saved in net by Steven Topper. Topper next scooped up a ball inside the Okemos box before clearing it back to the midfield. Phil Glaub made a nice run up the left wing before crossing the ball into the EL box but it was cleared out and Steven Topper made another save in the Okemos goal on another EL counter attack. Omar El-Hussieny found Ian Sinclair on a nice give-and-go play and Anthony Earley (#23) had a shot saved by the EL keeper. EL quickly counter attacked forcing two saves from Steven Topper as the game got more intense. Faread Jamalifaard stole the ball on defense for Okemos and Rand Costello (#18) made a nice run with the ball before it was cleared out of play. Jason Storey provided support on defense before Tony Hassan played the ball forward to Omar El-Hussieny who found Ian Sinclair on a run up the right wing. Alex Potter made a nice pass up to Faread Jamalifaard before EL cleared the ball back into the Okemos end. Omar El-Hussieny dribbled deep into the EL box but his shot was wide of the net. Okemos had another go from distance but their shot flew over the net.

Alex Potter, Tony Hassan and Phil Glaub each provided help for Okemos on defense as EL picked up their pressure. EL got off two shots in a row that were wide of the net. Faread Jamalifaard stole the ball and crossed it into the box but it was cleared by the EL defenders. Fa then dribbled into the EL box before his shot was saved by the EL keeper. Okemos was called of an offsides as Ben Skole (#2) dribbled up the right wing. Peter Houston dribbled deep into the Okemos box before passing the ball to Ali Philman whose shot beat Steven Topper and found the back of the net as the EL team celebrated. EL continued to pressure Okemos on the ball as Peter Houston had another shot go wide of the net. Alex Potter stepped up to clear the ball out of the Okemos end as EL seemed to play with renewed energy. Steven Topper stepped up to collect a ball played into the Okemos box but the ball was not cleared and another EL shot by Jordan Wyant found the back of the net. EL continued to attack fighting for every loose ball and header before Ali Philman got his second goal of the match on a shot from the left-hand side of the Okemos 18-yard box that found the corner of the net. EL continued to push forward forcing another save in the Okemos net from Steven Topper. Okemos had a final scoring chance on a nice cross played into the EL box by Omar El-Hussieny before the game ended.

Article published in the Lansing State Journal on 09/08/05. A story about the match also appeared in the Towne Courier newspaper.

Final score: Okemos 0, East Lansing 3
Saves by Topper: 4 First Half, 6 Second Half (10 total)
Okemos record: 1-1-1
CAAC Regular Season Record: 1-1-0

Next game for Okemos Varsity: @ Midland Dow High School on 09/12/05

MapQuest info on Midland Dow H.S.

Okemos Begins CAAC League Play With 3:0 Win Over Holt
August 31, 2005
Photos

Faread Jamalifard, senior, challenging a Holt midfielder.

Okemos High School Varsity Boys Soccer started off their CAAC regular season with a win at home against Holt High School on Wednesday night. Holt came out with determined play and kept the ball well in the first half as Steven Topper was called into action early and often in the Okemos net. Okemos seemed to have trouble finding their rhythm and Holt took advantage, getting off many shots and forcing some fine saves from Topper in goal. Okemos finally got a chance to score and took advantage of it when they were awarded a penalty kick midway through the first half. Omar El-Hussieny (#10) took the PK and placed it in the corner of the net to put Okemos ahead. This seemed to wake up the Okemos players as they began to see more of the ball and play with more precision as the half came to an end.

The 2nd half saw more solid passing and defending by Okemos as Omar El-Hussieny got his second goal of the match on a nice cross from Phile Glaub (#12) that was headed past the Holt keeper and into the net.

Steven Topper grabbing a cross ball early in the 1st half.

Okemos came on strong the rest of the game, winning balls in the midfield and stepping up on defense to thwart any Holt attacks. Anthony Earley (#23) got a third goal for Okemos, after an initial save on a shot by Ian Sinclair (#21), putting the ball past the Holt keeper and into the net.

Final score: Okemos 3, Holt 0
Saves by Topper: stay tuned...
Okemos record: 1-0-1
CAAC Regular Season Record: 1-0-0

Next game for Okemos Varsity: @ East Lansing on 09/07/05.

Okemos High School Varsity Boys Soccer team begins 2005 season
with a draw at U-D Jesuit

OHS Varsity Boys Soccer travelled to U-D Jesuit for a non-league match to begin their 2005 season. The match got underway on an overcast Friday afternoon at the U-D Jesuit field. U-D pushed forward early and often, and Tony Hassan (#3) provided support on defense clearing the ball out of the Okemos half. Jason Storey (#4) stepped up to clear another ball played into the Okemos box. Anthony Earley (#23) provided help on defense as U-D kept the ball in the Okemos end. Alex Potter (#11) took a free kick for Okemos but the ball was cleared by the U-D defense. Steven Topper stepped up to collect a ball played into the Okemos box and kicked it back to the midfield. Anthony Earley stole the ball and played it forward as Okemos got their offense going when Ben Skole (#2) took a shot that went wide of the net. U-D counter attacked forcing a nice save in the Okemos net from Steven Topper. U-D kept the ball in the Okemos end and another shot went wide of the mark. Okemos won a free kick and Tony Hassan played the ball forward before it was cleared out by the U-D defense.

Omar El-Hussieny (#10) provided hustle and pressure on the ball forcing a U-D throw in. Tony Hassan stole the ball for Okemos and pushed it forward. But U-D won it back in midfield taking another shot that was high of the net. Jason Storey cleared a ball out of the Okemos box and Faread Jamalifard (#13) made a nice run up the left wing before the ball was cleared out of play. Okemos then won a free kick but their resulting shot was wide of the net. Okemos kept the ball in the U-D end and another shot was wide of the goal. Anthony Earley provided strong play on the defensive end as U-D counterattacked and had another go from distance, but their shot was wide. Tony Hassan and Jason Storey worked to clear the ball for Okemos on defense. Steven Topper stepped up to collect a ball in the Okemos box as U-D kept the pressure on. Ben Skole collided with the U-D goalkeeper on a high ball played into the box before the ball was cleared out of play. U-D took the ball in the midfield and pushed it forward forcing a nice save in goal from Steven Topper. Faread Jamalifaard made another fine run up the left wing before passing the ball off to Omar El-Hussieny whose shot beat the U-D keeper to put Okemos ahead. U-D attacked on the ensuing play and Jason Storey stepped up to clear the ball out of the Okemos box. Steven Topper made another nice save in goal as U-D pushed for the equalizer. Phil Glaub (#12) won the ball in midfield and pushed forward before the ball was cleared out of play and the 1st half came to an end.

The 2nd half got underway with U-D attacking to win a corner kick before the ball was cleared out of the Okemos end by Jason Storey. Okemos pushed the ball into the U-D end but their resulting shot was wide of the net. Alex Potter stepped up on defense as U-D kept the ball in the Okemos half. Okemos won a free kick followed by a corner kick but a shot from Jon Cantu (#7) was wide of the net. Jason Storey cleared the ball out of the Okemos end as U-D pushed hard for a goal, forcing Steven Topper to step up and collect the ball. But U-D kept the ball in the Okemos end with another shot that was wide of the net. Phil Glaub won the ball in midfield and pushed it forward to Alex Potter whose shot was saved by the U-D keeper. Tony Hassan stepped up on defense but U-D kept pressuring the ball before Jason Storey cleared it back out of the Okemos end. U-D dribbled up the middle of the field and their shot was saved by Steven Topper. Alex Potter provided support on defense as U-D kept their attack going, with another shot that was just wide of the goal. Omar El-Hussieny saw his shot go wide of the net as Okemos counter attacked.

Steven Topper stepped up to collect a ball inside the Okemos box before clearing it back into the U-D end. Jason Storey again stepped up winning a ball in the Okemos half before another U-D shot was saved in net by Steven Topper. U-D kept pressuring the ball forcing stops in the defensive end by Jason Storey and Alex Potter. Omar El-Hussieny found the ball at his feet but his shot was wide of the net. Steven Topper stepped up to gather the ball followed by a U-D shot that was wide of the mark. U-D kept the ball in the Okemos end and when two U-D players collided with Faread Jamalifard, the ball was played into open space and a nice shot beat Steven Topper in goal to even the score. U-D kept attacking with another shot high of the net and Tony Hassan stepped up several times to clear balls out of the Okemos half. Jason Storey & Anthony Earley both provided help in the defensive end as U-D kept pushing forward. Okemos won a corner kick and a shot by Phil Glaub was wide of the net. Omar El-Hussieny took another shot that was saved by the U-D keeper as Okemos kept their own attack going. Jon Cantu pushed the ball up the right wing before his shot was saved by the U-D keeper. Sam Peters (#17) dribbled into space before his shot flew over the U-D net and match ended.

Final score: Okemos 1, U-D Jesuit 1
Okemos record: 0-0-1

Next game for Okemos Varsity: First CAAC league game @ home vs. Holt on Wednesday, August 31, at 5:30 pm.

Okemos High School Varsity Boys Soccer team focus of
Lansing State Journal article

The Lansing State Journal kicked off their coverage of the area's fall High School soccer season with an article on the Okemos High School team. The article, which appeared in the 08/26/05 Sports section, is available online and includes quotes from Coach Guggemos and seniors on the team. A season preview section showcases the talent on this year's team and the competition of other Lansing area High Schools.

Results from the Saline Pre-season Tournament:

Okemos High School Varsity Boys Soccer played four scrimmage matches on Monday, August 22, 2005 at the annual Hornet Classic. In the first match, OHS drew vs. Canton 0:0. In the 2nd match, OHS defeated Ann Arbor Pioneer 1:0. In the 3rd match, OHS lost 0:1 to Livonia Stevenson. And in the last match, Okemos drew 1:1 vs. Ann Arbor Huron.

Next up: OHS will play at the University of Detroit Jesuit on Friday, August 26, 2005. Time 3:30 pm.

Directions to the U-D Jesuit High School: Take I-96 east and follow I-696 east (to Port Huron) to I-10 south or John Lodge (downtown). Get off at the 7 Mile Road Exit and turn left (east) onto 7 mile. Take 7 mile just past Wyoming and you'll see the U-D Jesuit campus on your left. There is parking in front of the High School and the soccer field is behind the building.

U-D Jesuit campus: 8400 S. Cambridge Avenue, Detroit, MI 48221.

Senior Fareed Jamalifaard shielding the ball from a Churchill player. Click photo to view game photos.

Results from the Holt Pre-season Tournament:

Okemos High School Varsity Boys Soccer played three scrimmage matches on Saturday, August 20, 2005 at the annual Holt Soccer Shootout. In the first match, OHS defeated Bedford 3:0 on two (2) goals from Omar El-Hussieny and one from Ben Skole. In the 2nd match, OHS drew against Livonia Churchill 1:1 with a nice goal by Omar El-Hussieny to equalize. And in the 3rd match, OHS lost 0:1 to Stoney Creek, last year's Division II runner up to Forest Hills Central (2004 state champion).

Next up: OHS will play four scrimmage matches in the (Saline) Hornet Classic Soccer Tournament on Monday, August 22, 2005.

Directions to the "New" Saline High School: Take I-96 east to M-23 south; take M-23 south past Ann Arbor and exit at Michigan Avenue west; take Michigan Ave. to Industrial Drive and turn right; then turn right again onto Campus Parkway. Stadium is on the left-hand side. Alternative route: Take I-96 east to M-23 south; take M-23 south to I-94 west; get off I-94 at the State St. (Briarwood mall) exit south and follow State (becomes State Road) to Campus Parkway; turn right and follow the road to the high school and stadium.

Address: Saline High School, 1300 Campus Parkway, Saline, MI 47166.

The 2005 Okemos High School Boys Varsity Soccer season is about to begin. After a state division 1 championship last year (2004), the new season brings hope and pride that builds on the sucesses of the past. Okemos Varsity Soccer has established a history of success and quality that speaks for itself. This tradition of excellence and success provides everyone involved in Okemos Varsity Soccer with opportunities to play at the highest levels and against the best competition. This tradition continues with the members of this years team. Congratulations to all of the players and best of luck this year!