MLS Next Cup Day 2 U-17 & U-19 Standouts
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FRISCO, Texas – Day Two of MLS Next Cup saw the older age groups get their tournament underway. With the older age brings a new level of physicality and slightly cooler temps meant the pace of the game picked up.…
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Continue ReadingFRISCO, Texas – Day Two of MLS Next Cup saw the older age groups get their tournament underway. With the older age brings a new level of physicality and slightly cooler temps meant the pace of the game picked up. PrepSoccer was in attendance to see the best and the brightest of the older age groups.
Of the games we attended here are the players that stood out
U-19
The Rutgers commit flashed his potential to be a top tier Big Ten defender in this game. Dominant in the air defensively and on attacking set pieces Collins led the PDA backline as they won 3-1. Collins showed to be comfortable in possession finding midfielders with line breaking passes with both feet and the composure to play out of pressure with out needing to go long. On the occasion where the opponent got in behind he flashed his recovery speed to get back and slow down the attack at the edge of the 18 yard box.
The Marist-bound Ulaj was a threat on the wing running at defenders and being an outlet to retain possession and initiate attacks. What stood out about his game was how controlled he was when receiving the ball. Every touch was full of confidence with intention around what the next move would be before he got it.
U-17
Starting up to for Barca Academy Marquez used his high level athleticism to put a game Bethesda backline on the back foot. Quick off his mark and creative with his movement his pace threatened Bethesda much of the first and second half. In addition to his athleticism Marquez showed quick feet on the ball and the ability to finish when he curled one in to the top right corner after a few cut backs to create space.
Ayla got the scoring started in the first minute as he embarked on a mazy run through 4 defenders before shifting it onto his right foot and slotting it away. With the freedom to roam in his attacking midfield spot, Ayla was all over the field finding ways to get involved and flash his technical skill level.
A true number 9 Krupski was an active goal threat all game for PDA U-17 who came back from 2-0 down to win 6-2. Using his big frame to post up the opposition and bring his wingers into the game the Rutgers commit was a force all game. He got his goal in the second half to ice the game for PDA showing soft feet as he shifted the ball around the goalkeeper and then slotting it away