LANSING, Mich. — Midfielder Nick Moon has been named the Lansing Ignite FC Midseason Most Valuable Player after recording four goals in 14 USL League One regular season matches in 2019.
The LIFC Midseason MVP award was finalized based on three different voting categories: 33 percent of the vote was given to the staff's selection, 33 percent to the selection of the media representative and 34 percent to the fans' selections via an online poll [lansingignite.com].
Moon earned the second most votes in the fan poll, with Ivo Cerda claiming the most votes by the fans, but the Wisconsin native was pushed over the line by Lansing State Journal writer Phil Friend, who served as the media representative and selected the dynamic midfielder ahead of the other contenders.
“For me, it came down to Nick and Ivo Cerda, primarily because of how consistent both players have been in their roles this season,” Friend said, “but I give the slight edge to Moon, who leads the team with four goals. Moon’s versatility is what makes him stand out, whether he’s asked to play as a wingback as part of a back-five or as central midfielder, which he has played on a couple occasions this season. Wherever he’s lined up, Moon has been a vital part of Lansing’s attack in both the build-up play and as a finisher. With 15 chances created this season, he’s one of the few players who can consistently dribble past defenders.
The former University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee forward has arguably been the most dangerous attacker for LIFC so far this season, creating 15 scoring chances (tied for second on LIFC) through 14 games. He has also received USL League One Team of the Week honors twice in 2019 (Week 3 and Week 10).
Despite receiving the third most votes from the fan poll, Stefan Cleveland finished in second with the backing of Aaron Cranford, who is the Communications Manager for LIFC and made the staff selection for the award.
“While he has only played seven matches for Lansing this USL League One season, there’s no doubting the value Stefan Cleveland,” Cranford said. “Recording four shutouts in seven appearances while making 26 total saves is remarkable, and his presence has pushed Lansing into not only a serious playoff contender but also a team that can fight for the top spot.”
Rounding out the list, Cerda finished in third, Xavier Gomez and Grant Stoneman tied for fourth and Kevin Coiffic finished the voting in sixth.
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