SAN JOSE, Calif. - Advancing to the International Bracket of the 2016 Generation adidas Cup is impressive, but to tally a +14-goal differential and a 5-1 record against the LA Galaxy, Seattle Sounders FC and Colorado Rapids is a head turner.
For the U-16 Earthquakes Academy, they did just that, charging through the Western Regional bracket against some of the best talent in the country at the StubHub Center. In a total of six games, the Quakes compiled a near-perfect record, boasting 17 goals for and three goals against.
“The Generation adidas Cup is the premier event for our U16 boys each year because it allows us to play against all the MLS teams in the West Region,” said Quakes Academy head coach Paul Holocher. “We are excited we qualified in the top spot in our group and are looking forward to the international event in March."
On Friday, the Quakes defeated Seattle Sounders FC 2-1 behind goals from Adolfo Trujillo and Ivan Valencia. Trujillo got things started in the first half after converting a long-distance shot from the left flank. The Quakes extended their lead in the second half through the right foot of Valencia, securing their first win of the weekend.
“We had a good rhythm throughout most of the game and held a lot of the possession,” Holocher said. “We were very close to getting a third or fourth goal which would have made the game more comfortable, but the boys controlled the game very well to get the 2-1 victory.”
The second match of the weekend proved to be a turning point for Holocher and his players after shutting out the LA Galaxy 2-0 on their home field. Valencia was back on the score sheet after converting on a brilliant individual effort in the 18-yard box just before halftime. Trujillo continued his impact on the offensive side against the Galaxy, drawing a penalty kick late in the second half that Andrew Paoli calmly converted.
The Galaxy responded with a second half penalty kick attempt themselves, but it was Quakes goalkeeper Dominic Peters who guessed correctly to deny LA a comeback.
“The whole team played with amazing heart,” Holocher said. “We pressed the Galaxy early and created several good scoring chances from disrupting their build-up and winning the ball in their half.”
In their final match against the Colorado Rapids, the U16s had to win or draw to lock up their qualification for March’s International Generation adidas bracket in Dallas. After falling to Colorado earlier in the tournament, the Quakes proved up to the task, scoring the go-ahead goal through the head of Valencia.
“We were organized, defended and attacked well, especially as the game went on in the second half and we secured a nice 1-0 win.”
The win over the then top-ranked Rapids allowed San Jose to leapfrog them in the standings and win the West Region. The tournament will be held March 18-26 in Frisco, Texas. Details including fixture times and opponents will be announced at a later date.
