ROCHESTER, Mich. — The Golden Grizzlies played the Michigan Wolverines to a high-octane 2-2 draw in their home opener, using a pair of late-game goals by Freshman Christopher Jean-Léger to earn the tie.

The Golden Grizzlies were on the defensive for much of the first half as both teams struggled to accumulate looks on goal. Abdul Al-Rashed and Christopher Jean Leger, both recorded shots in the 18th minute, both to no avail. 

Al-Rashed continued to apply pressure with another attempt in the 40th minute but the score remained knotted 0-0 going into the break.

The second half began with a flurry of activity, as Michigan took a 1-0 lead in the 55th minute with Kyle Pierson scoring off a Nicholas Cassiday assist. The Wolverines would score again less than ten minutes later, this time off the foot of Michael Ramirez as they took a 2-0 lead.

After the goal Michigan seemed to let off the gas and get complacent, allowing Oakland to shift the momentum and respond with persistence, leading to a Jean Leger score in the 79th minute, assisted by Jack Klomparens, narrowing the deficit to 2-1. 

The Wolverines had a chance to score the dagger on a penalty kick in the 85th minute, but Grayson Elmquist missed high, keeping Oakland within striking distance.

The Golden Grizzlies would capitalize on that chance as Jean Léger struck again in the 88th minute, this time assisted by Miller Knestrict on a tap-in goal to level the score at 2-2, securing a draw in a tense finish.

Jean Leger scored two goals, now tied for the team lead on the season and earning his first career multi-goal game, leading the team with his offensive output. Klomparens and Knestrict contributed one assist each, adding key play in the midfield. Al-Rashed tied Jean-Léger for the team lead in shots with three of his own, one on goal.

Oakland travels to East Lansing to face Michigan State University on Monday, Sept. 8 as they complete a duo of in-state matchups. The match is set for 7 p.m. and will be streamed on BTN+.