UIC topped Michigan, 1-0, in the Flames' final exhibition match of the preseason.  Christian Crespo scored the only goal of the match in the 52^nd minute.

"It was good to have Michigan here today," Sean Phillips said.  "Last year's match was a good preseason test for both teams at their place, and we had another good test today.  Michigan presented several challenges for us and I thought the guys responded well to those challenges.  Of course it was good to get a result.  I expect Michigan to be a good team this season based on what we saw today."

The Flames had several high quality advances into the final third from the outset of the second half.  All were initiated by Eduardo Garcia, who got credit for assisting Crespo's goal when a shot of his own was saved and deflected to Crespo for the finish.

Michigan had more of the game in the late stages as they hunted for a goal of their own, but the Flames' defense stood tall.  Second-half sub Paul Brauckmann was on the end of a number of clearances, and several Flames played impressive 1v1 defense to disrupt possession.

The Flames will begin the regular season on Thursday at #8 Kentucky.