University Liggett Claimed CHSL Cardinal Championship
The top-ranked Knights secured a 2-1 victory over Clarkston Everest Collegiate at Oakland University.
Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Soccer
Top-ranked University Liggett defeated Clarkston Everest Collegiate 2-1 to secure the CHSL Cardinal championship. The comeback win was sealed by a late goal from Ollie Cooley.
Why it matters
The championship victory reinforces University Liggett's status as the team to beat, while Everest Collegiate looks to regroup ahead of the upcoming state playoffs.
Ollie Cooley netted the winning goal with 29:11 remaining in the match following an earlier score by Brady Ancona. This victory concludes the match for the No. 14 ranked Mountaineers, who now shift focus to the Division 4 playoffs.
The players
University Liggett
This private school based in Grosse Pointe Woods maintains a top-ranked soccer program within Michigan high school athletics.
Clarkston Everest Collegiate
Known as the Mountaineers, this program competes in Division 4 and finished its current season with a 12-3-0 record.
Ollie Cooley
He is a key player for University Liggett who scored the decisive goal in the championship match.
Xavier Brikho
He is a contributor for Everest Collegiate who provided the team's only goal during the championship game.
Brady Ancona
He is a player for University Liggett who contributed a goal to help secure the championship victory.
The details
Everest Collegiate initially took the lead with an opening goal from Xavier Brikho with 30:14 left in the first half. University Liggett used a series of tactical fouls to disrupt the Mountaineers' offensive rhythm, ultimately setting the stage for Cooley to score the decider off a set piece.
Timeline
The CHSL Cardinal championship match occurred on October 8, 2026.
Season Trajectory
This match serves as a crucial measuring stick for both programs as they enter the Michigan High School Athletic Association Division 4 playoffs. The result significantly impacts the regional power rankings as Everest Collegiate prepares for a matchup against Southfield Christian.
University Liggett enters the state tournament as the team to beat, while Everest Collegiate must rely on their 12-3-0 season foundation to pivot for the Division 4 postseason. The potential for a state semifinal rematch remains a possibility depending on the final bracket layout.
The takeaway
Securing a championship win through a set piece highlights the importance of situational discipline in high-stakes matches. Teams must balance aggressive defensive play with clinical execution to maintain leads in playoff environments.
What happens next
Clarkston Everest Collegiate is scheduled to compete against Southfield Christian in the upcoming Division 4 playoffs.
Further reading
For more coverage of high school athletic competition, visit Soccer.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Oakland Press.
