Previous: Houston Problem For Juniors
Toronto FC’s Junior Academy team fell to a second defeat at the SUM U17 Cup in Houston, losing 3-0 to Chivas USA. The story of the tournament so far for the Junior Reds is missed opportunities and they again failed to capitalize in front of goal as Chivas scored three times in the space of 20 minutes (35’, 45’ and 54’) to win the match.
Chivas USA came out fighting as did Houston Dynamo a day earlier, but this time the Academy boys stepped up and battled Chivas off the pitch. The difference was certainly finishing on the day. A missed penalty, three breakaways and three clear headers from set pieces could have sealed a great performance, but instead Chivas were the ones who snatched their opportunities.
The good play from the second half the night before continued throughout the match against Chivas USA, but in the final third the killer instinct was lacking.
“We began the match very sharply tonight and were rewarded with a few quality scoring opportunities,” said Academy Manager Stuart Neely. “In competitive matches such as this, you must be able to bury the chance and the team; that is what caps off your performance.”
“We were awarded a penalty and missed another chance to be on top. Following that we had several set pieces and breakaways that we failed to complete. There are two glaring differences between ourselves and the other MLS Academies; the physical build of the players and their ability to score goals by key players.”
“There are very big boys here who can play, and we are a very small technical team in comparison. It is all well and good saying they are not 3-0 games but we must find ways to finish just one of our many chances created. We are playing good football and battling well – we literally simply need the finishing touch.”
Starting XI: Silveira, Kim (41’), Curci, Charles, Zanette (41’), Casupanan, Mannella (31’), Lees, Ngo (31’), Jackman (50’), Kristopher
Subs used: Kirupakaran (31’), Futorianksy (41’), Arnone (50’), Kelsey (41’), Camargo (31’)
Subs not used: Bush, Reel, Demarco, Balakumaran
