Oakland calls upon 'M'

By Jeff Phillips

Daily Sports Writer

It doesn't take long to form a rivalry when it's in-state.

This afternoon, the Michigan women's soccer team will take on Oakland at the Michigan Soccer Field at 4 p.m.

Located just an hour from Ann Arbor, Oakland is about as close as they come.

"Any time you are playing an in-state team you are playing for state pride," Debbie Belkin Rademacher said. "Since the first time we played, they have been getting better and better."

Michigan has easily handled Oakland in the past, winning 4-1 last season in their second meeting. But the Wolverines may have their work cut out for them, as the Grizzlies have taken a bite out of the Big Ten by defeating Ohio State earlier this season.

The game is also be important in improving Michigan's nonconference record, which is 1-3.

"We need to approach it as an important game when you are looking ahead to postseason play," Rademacher said.

Michigan is coming off a strong weekend, taking two away matches in Illinois and Iowa, and improving its record to 5-1 in the Big Ten and 8-4 overall.

"Everybody is feeling good and very upbeat" after the weekend, Rademacher said.

Rademacher gave the team the day off Monday to prepare for the tough week - because the in-state rivalries don't end after Oakland. This Sunday, Michigan will travel to East Lansing to take on Michigan State.

ALEX WOLK/Daily

A 4 p.m. contest against Oakland this afternoon provides yet another opportunity for the home fans to catch a glimpse of the Wolverines.