The Union Academy swept Real Jersey and secured shut outs across the board in a strong weekend of home matches.
The U14s secured a shutout with Declan Lannon and Darren Williams driving home goals for the Union. Phil Karn’s team faced a Real Jersey side that was compact in the back but always ready to spring out and press a loose touch. Work in training paid off in transition moments with a focused defensive unit shutting down counterattacks. The next step in this squad’s evolution will be creating more opportunities in the final third through thoughtful and impactful combinations.
The U15s were in top form against Real Jersey and both Cavan Sullivan and Anisse Saidi notched braces before Kellen LeBlanc finished the game off just past the hour mark. Beyond the scoreline, the nature of the goals and chances created pointed to this group’s increased confidence in their ability to execute the Union’s style of play. They were direct and aggressive in transition and punished opponent mistakes.
Antonios Horozoglou and Devon DeCorte got on the scoresheet for the U17s as they shut out Real Jersey 2-0. Diego Rocio was heavily involved in the attacking movements up the wing as the squad worked to break down Jersey’s low block. Keeping a clean sheet was key as the group looks to ensure they have defensive solidity behind a whirlwind attacking core.
The lone goal of the U13s matchup with Real Jersey came from Jayden Kouadio as Willy Topp’s side came out victorious 1-0. The Union controlled the match well but could not break down a well-organized defense, leading to a tight scoreline despite a commanding performance. The focus in training this week will be on keeping energy high and finding new ways to attack the defense as the match progresses. Micah Casey and Miles Smith were standout performers as the team looks to round into form for the spring campaign.
Next weekend, the U15s and U17s travel to face Inter Miami CF, while the U13s and U14s have home showdowns with Met Oval.
