The MLS NEXT season is well and truly underway these days, with all three of your Loons’ young squads taking to the pitch yet again this past weekend. A trip down the highway to Kansas City saw them take on three matches against SKC, putting their skills to the test against fellow MLS opposition in pursuit of their first wins of the season.
U16
Sporting Kansas City 0 - 4 Minnesota United
The U16s earned a 4-0 win over hosts SKC to start the day off with three points for the Loons, the first win in the new season for the team.
U17
Sporting Kansas City 1 - 3 Minnesota United
The U17s followed suit, earning a 3-1 victory after the U16s took care of business. Head Coach Jamie Carroll-Rolfe described the match as “A deserved win in tough conditions,” saying “We started well, winning the ball in transition close to goal and progressing it well.”
A brace from Addison Morehead and a goal from Harrison Brechman saw the U17s overwhelm their hosts. Morehead’s runs behind the opposition were timed to perfection, and his finishing ability shone through in crucial moments, rounding the keeper for his first and heading home for his second.
Midfielder Collin Thorpe earned plaudits as well, as his ability to not only withstand pressure but also find ways to consistently progress the ball opened up the pitch for his teammates. He got an assist for his efforts, extending his influence to the scoresheet in fitting fashion.
As any good coach will do, Carroll-Rolfe identified opportunities for growth after heaping praise on his team’s performance, with an emphasis on late-game management standing out as his main area of focus.
U19
Sporting Kansas City 3 - 2 Minnesota United
While the U19s didn’t complete the sweep, it was their third-consecutive match scoring two goals, bringing them up to six goals in just three games. A hot day in Kansas City may have contributed to a slow start from the visitors, who struggled to get organized early and allowed a goal in transition. The ship was righted by a Jose Orta Ruiz set piece from 25 yards out, curling around the wall into the bottom corner to pull the Loons level again.
The back and forth nature of the match continued from there, though, with SKC capitalized on a ball over the top to score in transition once again. Griffin Giel scored the second equalizer of the game after winning the ball off an SKC center back. Unfortunately, a late goal for SKC sent the Loons into halftime down 3-2, leaving the entire second half for them to chase the game.
Though they didn’t earn the result they wanted at the end of the day, forward Issa Saidi earned a shoutout from Head Coach Alex Morawiecki, who noted his constant presence and persistent threat as a key to his side’s performance. Likewise, Mateo Cabezas earned recognition as well after making his season debut for the 19s, adding a level of competitiveness and quality that elevated his team’s overall play.
The whole Academy will be back in action this weekend, with a full slate of home games against FC Cincinnati scheduled to be played at the National Sports Center this Saturday, September 26.
