While the first team hosted the Philadelphia Union at Stade Saputo for an MLS game, the U18 and U16 teams went to Philadelphia to face the Union’s academy teams.
The U18 tied 0-0 against a strong contender for the playoffs.
“We had a good first half where we were strong defensively and had many chances,” said Impact U18 head coach Yoann Damet. “We showed maturity in our play and would have deserved a better result after the first 45 minutes. The second half was more balanced, but we showed determination and solidarity. We ended the last 15 minutes well and could have been rewarded with a goal. I’m happy with the performance of the group against a good Philadelphia team. The team keeps evolving in the way we begin games and express our qualities.”
The Impact U16, for its parts, allowed a goal in the first minutes of the game but finally drew level on a goal from Tristano Fasulo in the 70th minute.
“It was a fulfilling game as a whole,” said Impact U16 head coach Nicolas Gagnon. “We had a tough 30 minutes to start where we were always in reaction mode. We then took control again and showed the kind of quality this team can have. Players are young and need to be more constant, but they showed they can dominate against one of the best teams in North America.”
With four games to play, the U18 team (11-4-7) is in 18th position on 74 teams while the U16 (12-4-6) is in 13th position. The best 32 teams qualify for the playoffs.
The next weekend’s games will be played at the Montreal Impact training centre against BW Gottschee Academy, starting at 11am. The U18 Gottschee team is currently top of the USSDA standings.
