EGELSTON TWP. – The Muskegon Risers men’s outdoor squad had a unique return to the field on Friday night, following a two-year hiatus.

The Risers were excited to open their first full season in the National Premier Soccer League against the Milwaukee Torrent, and hoped to have great weather and a big crowd.

Instead they got lousy weather – with lightning causing three different delays in the game – and finally a 1-0 victory that ended with about 20 minutes left on the clock.

With so many interruptions it appeared difficult for the teams to get into a flow, and shots on goal were limited in the contest.

The game’s only goal was scored by Muskegon’s Roni Sylemanji about midway through the first half.

The Risers led 1-0 before the first lightning delay was called at the 37-minute mark.

The two teams eventually took the field again and finished out the first half, before yet another lightning delay was called.

Following that lengthy pause, the two teams played until there were about 20 minutes remaining in the second half, then the lightning returned and the game was finally called official at 11:05 p.m.

“I don’t know if I’ve ever been in such a situation,” said Risers head coach Stu Collins about the unique stop-and-play flow of the game. “I’ve been there when a game starts super late. But credit to the boys more than anything else. It showed their mentality and willingness to dig in to get a result. I’m quite pleased.”

Sylejmanji  found the back of the net off an assist from Luis Esquivel-Gonzalez at the 22-minute mark of the first half, before the weather delays began, giving Muskegon the lead for good.

“I took my touch around the defense and finished it,” Sylejmanji said. “It’s great to start the season with a win. We’re looking to get the three points (in the standings, which teams get when they win) every time we go out there.”

Sylejmanji’s goal was only one of two shots that the Risers had on net all game. Despite being outshot 3-2, Muskegon still picked up the victory.

“I think we’re still figuring out our chemistry,” said Collins about cranking up the offense. “We hit the post off a free kick early on. We created four or five good chances. Sometimes they work out and sometimes they don’t. Maybe if we don’t have the start and stop, it’s different.”

Goalkeeper Mason Maziasz picked up the shutout victory in net for the Risers.

The Risers’ next game will be against Panathinaikos Chicago on May 31. Their next home game will be June 12.