Midland Dow opened the scoring early, finding the net with 27:08 left in the first half. Just minutes later, with 25:21 remaining, the Chargers were issued a yellow card, but the call did little to shift momentum. The Chargers maintained steady pressure, breaking up Alpena’s passing and creating turnovers that kept the Wildcats on the defensive. Midland Dow added a second goal at the 10:53 mark to take a 2-0 lead into halftime.

The Wildcats entered the second half looking for a response, and they got it when a penalty kick was awarded with 31:47 left to play. Owen Kaiser converted from the spot to bring Alpena within one, making the score 2-1. Alpena showed improvement after the break, holding more possession than in the opening half and earning several goal kicks while spending more time in the attacking third.

Midland Dow, however, regained control midway through the second half. The Chargers scored their third goal with 20:08 remaining and added a fourth only minutes later, stretching the lead to 4-1. With 3:09 left on the clock, Midland Dow was awarded a penalty kick and converted to seal the 5-1 result.

While Alpena generated more offensive pressure in the second half, the Wildcats were unable to match Midland Dow’s pace and efficiency. The Chargers’ ability to win possession and finish their opportunities proved decisive in the outcome.

News Photo by Leslianne Johns Alpena's Joe LaCross runs for the ball in Monday's home opener against Midland Dow at Wildcat Stadium.

Alpena will look to regroup quickly, as the Wildcats return to action on Saturday morning in a home tournament featuring multiple opponents.