DCU Academy Update – U-18’s and U-16’s compile perfect record in USSDA weekend play

D.C. United’s Academy compiled a perfect record last weekend, as the U-18’s and U-16’s earned back-to-back wins in USSDA matches.

On Saturday, April 14, United’s U-18 side defeated South Central Premier by 2-0. D.C. United took the lead early into the first half, opening the score with a goal from Jannick Eckenrode in the 13th minute, assisted by Jalen Robinson. Six minutes later, OJ Porteria tallied the winning goal from an assist by Marcus Salandy-Defour, securing the shutout victory.

The U-18’s followed their Saturday win with a solid performance on Sunday, coming from behind to earn a 2-1 victory over Oakwood Soccer Club. Patrick Foss buried a free kick in the 32nd minute to tie the match, while Suliman Dainkeh sealed the win unassisted in the 90th minute.

“The team has been doing well for the past few weeks, dominating play,” said United U-18 Head Coach Nolan Sheldon. “Now we are starting to see the team’s playing quality turn into goals. Both wins were well deserved and should give the team confidence moving forward.”

United’s U-16’s kicked off the weekend with a 4-0 victory over South Central Premier. Michael Seaton scored a brace, opening the scoring in the 2nd minute and tallying his second goal in the 29th. Michael Monahan scored United’s third goal, while Heyner Pajaro sealed the victory with a 20-yard-shot in the 78th minute. The U-16’s defeated Oakwood Soccer Club by 3-1 on Sunday, April 15 with goals from Nigel Robinson, Ian Harkes and Michael Sauers.

“The boys showed a lot of character in going down and coming back to score 3 in 20,” said United U-16 Head Coach Tom Torres. “They could have easily put their heads down and panic. Instead, it was refreshing to see them continue to move the ball and get rewarded. Overall, it was a successful weekend in terms of style of play coupled with positive results.”