The Academy squads returned to the pitch Sunday as they hosted De Anza Force for a full slate of games. As the playoffs inch closer, three-of-four squads claimed crucial points to maintain their place in the standings.
The Results
U-17s
3-2 Loss vs De Anza Force
U-14s
4-0 Win vs De Anza Force
U-15
1-1 Draw vs De Anza Force
U-13s
2-2 Draw vs De Anza Force
Forward Rylan Hashimoto kicked things off with a four-score performance for the U-14s. After a scoreless first half, Hashimoto’s first strike came five minutes into the second half sand three more followed within 10 minutes of the 65th minute, securing the victory for his squad.
The U-13s and U-15s spilt points in their contests, with Midfielder Austin Thum scoring in the 39th minute to secure a point for the U-15s in a 1-1 draw. Trailing 2-0 midway through the second half, Declan Luigs’ score sparked a comeback for the U-13’s. Right back David Quintanilla leveled the game with one minute remaining, rescuing a point and keeping them just two back of second place. .
The U-17s started strong, netting two scores by the 30th minute. Forwards Ezekiel Padilla and Ethan Kelly each found the back of the net, but a hard-fought second half played out in De Anza’s favor after three goals in the closing 25 minutes.
What Lies Ahead
With this weekend’s results, each squad maintained its position near the top of the standings. The U-15s sit atop of the Northwest Division, while the U-13s and U-14s sit in third with plenty of opportunities to climb in the coming weeks. The U-15s and U-17s will continue to prepare for the MLS NEXT Flex tournament in May in Maryland where they will face top-level squads from across the nation.
