ECNL Girls 2023 National Playoffs: Day 2 Recap

On Sunday at Surf Cup Sports Park, the ECNL Girls U13-U15s took the field for the first time in this year’s postseason, while the U17s and U18/19s took the field for their second day of competition. All around Surf Cup Sports Park, day two was full of outstanding competition among these age groups.

In the U13 Champions League, Eastside FC and LAFC So Cal combined for four goals in a back and forth battle that ended with the two sides sharing the points in a 2-2 draw.

With the two teams tied at halftime, Eastside FC struck first out of the second half to grab the 2-1 lead. In only a few minutes though, LAFC So Cal, who was having success playing the ball over the top of the Eastside FC back line, quickly responded with the equalizing goal.

Both teams continued to push for the third goal in the final portion of the game, but deservedly the game ended with a 2-2 draw and the teams sharing the points.

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Despite the draw, Eastside FC Head Coach Anderson Prestes was extremely proud of his team’s effort, noting how strong all the opposition they will face this week is.

“They did a great job and showed some character. As a team we were able to go get the second goal, unfortunately we had the tying goal against us, but I have nothing to say other than good things. I’m very proud,” Prestes said.

In U14 Champions League action, a Jordyn Sullivan hat trick propelled Match Fit Academy to a win in their group stage opener over Tennessee SC.

Sullivan fired home goals in the 19th, 46th and 53rd minutes as part of Match Fit’s five goals that helped lead them to the victory.

After the game, Match Fit Academy Head Coach Dominick Bucci not only credited Sullivan, but also the play of Sabrina Karoly and the defensive effort his backline showed throughout the course of the game.

“Jordyn Sullivan scored three goals today, so it was good to get her going,” Bucci said. “Sabrina Karoly played well on the left side and our back line was great.”