By By SCOTT NOVAK / Dowagiac Daily News
MISHAWAKA, Ind. - For the second straight night the Michigan All-Star soccer team was embroiled in a shoot out at Sports Fest.
This time, however, Michigan was unable to prevail as Indiana East scored a 2-1 victory to claim the championship.
Despite having just 13 players available Thursday night at Bethel College, the East was able to stave off the Michigan All-Stars' offensive attack.
After a scoreless first half, both teams battled fatigue and the soaring temperatures trying to get the game-winner.
Michigan, which held a speed advantage, took a 1-0 lead in the second half as Bridgman's Mike Arnold took a pass from St. Joseph's Evan Lint and found the back of the net in the 64th minute.
Elkhart Memorial's Alex Keesler scored the equalizer in the 70th minute setting the state for another dramatic finish.
Both teams scored two goals in the first round of five shots.
With the match moving to sudden victory, Warsaw goalkeeper Adam Churchill was called upon to take the shot, which he made for his first ever match-winning goal.
Churchill then got back into goal as Michigan had one last opportunity to tie the match.
However, St. Joseph's Ben Schueneman's shot hit the cross bar to give the East the victory.
Michigan…1
Indiana East…2
M – Evan Lindt 64th minute
I – Alex Keeslar 70th minute