Final Update from Nationals:
The SCCSA Dragons ‘05 impressive run in the US Youth Soccer Presidents Cup came to a end today in a heartbreaking 2-1 (Extra Time) loss in the National Championship Game against Soltilo FC (Cal- South).
Ryan Beley put the Dragons on the board first in the 20th minute of the match on a put back from an attempted corner kick clearance. Soltilo brought the match to even when they scored midway through the second half. Tied at the end of regulation, play was physical and emotions were high in extra time. Soltilo pulled ahead in the last minute of the match with the ball rolling in after a scrum after a cross.
While the disappointment and pain of the last minute loss was evident from the tears in every players’ eyes, this team’s accomplishments, dedication to improvement, and commitment to leaving every last drop of passion and energy in pursuit of excellence is something they should be truly proud of. 2nd place in the Nation is a remarkable and impressive accomplishment.
Just as impressive is the way the team represented SCCSA, EPYSA, and the Eastern Region throughout the National Tournament. The respect they demonstrated and manner in which they played was applauded and recognized when they were selected to receive the Fair Play Award for the 2018 Nationals. In victory and defeat they were humble, gracious, and strived to demonstrate positive sportsmanship on and off the field.
Also, the family and friends of the team were nothing short of amazing over the last four days. Their support for the team in cheer and song was awesome. To see siblings hugging their brothers and their teammates-sharing both moments of joy and tears- was a special moment for sure.
Congratulations to the Players, Coaches, and supporters of our Dragons ‘05 for finishing as the 2018 U13 Boys National Presidents Finalist. We look forward to watching this team compete at the Nation’s most challenging and prestigious events for many years to come.
Update from Nationals Day 3:The most rewarding goals always lay ahead of a journey filled with unexpected roadblocks and turns. The Dragons ‘05 finds themselves one step away from their ultimate goal of winning a National Championship! The team secured a spot in the finals after winning their last group stage game today 3-1 over a tough FC Dallas team. After going down 1-0, the team responded in a furious fashion notching 3 goals in the final 20 minutes of the first half. Edwin Bedolla brought the game to even on an excellent assist from Jake Ross. Parker Wyatt scored the go ahead goal off a PK after being taken down in the box, and Jake Ross secured the two goal lead putting a header past the keeper off Tee Johnson’s cross.
The second half, the team played outstanding defense and held Dallas scoreless behind solid performances from GK Jack McCann, and the defensive unit of Zach Mannices, Jake Ross, Bobbo Chambers, Reagan Pelletier, Roberto Delgado, and Chris Ash. The team faces Soltilo FC (Cal-S)- who they tied 1-1 earlier in the week- in the Finals at 8:00am. Follow Social Media for game updates and results as the Dragons ‘05 look to bring the National Title Home to SCCSA and Eastern PA!
Update from Nationals Day 2:
“It’s not whether you get knocked down, it’s whether you get up.” – Vince Lombardi
Down 1-0 at halftime of game 2- and facing elimination- the Dragons ‘05 fought back to earn a 1-1 tie against Soltilo FC. After finding theirselves down one after a back and forth first half, the Dragons ‘05 regrouped and turned in a strong second half showing- with much of the play in their attacking half. The tie keeps their Championship hopes alive and makes Saturday’s final group matchup a high stakes contest. A win should put the team through to the final. Kickoff for the match is 12:15pm on 7/14 and the team will face the Southern Champions- FC Dallas.
Update from Nationals Day 1:
The Dragons ‘05 opened the Nationals President Cup with a tough 1-0 loss. Both teams found theirselves with opportunities in a scoreless first half. FC Wichita found the net with 20 minutes remaining in the second half. The Dragons pushed at the end to find the equalizer, but came up just short in a tough physical match. Game two is tomorrow at 7:45. Be sure to follow social media for updates as the Dragons look to return to their winning ways.