Recent Results
U-18
Sounders FC 2 at Chivas USA 0 (January 17)
Sounders FC 0 at LA Galaxy 2 (January 18)
U-16
Sounders FC 2 at Chivas USA 1 (January 17)
Sounders FC 1 at LA Galaxy 3 (January 18)
Upcoming Matches
January 24
Sounders FC U-18 vs. Vancouver Whitecaps U-18 (1:00 p.m. PST, Valley Ridge Park- Field 2)
Sounders FC U-16 vs. Vancouver Whitecaps U-16 (3:30 p.m. PST, Valley Ridge Park- Field 2)
Sounders FC U-14 vs. Vancouver Whitecaps U-14 (1:00 p.m. PST, Valley Ridge Park- Field 3)
The U-18 and U-16 Sounders FC Academy teams earned mix results last weekend, each going 1-1-0 against MLS foes Chivas USA and LA Galaxy. The U-18s earned a strong 2-0 win over Chivas with goals coming from Sean Bowman and Victor Mansaray, bringing their season totals to 13 and nine, respectively. The U-18s then fell 2-0 to a very strong Galaxy side the following day. The U-16s battled relentlessly for a 2-1 victory over Chivas USA despite going down a man early in the second half, with goals coming from Davis Behnke and Cameron Martin. The Galaxy completed its sweep of the Rave Green with a 3-1 win over the Sounders FC U-16s in Sunday’s matchup.
All three Academy teams will return to action this weekend, taking on Cascadia rivals Vancouver Whitecaps FC on Saturday, January 24 at Valley Ridge Park in SeaTac. Whitecap FC U-18s and U-16s each sit atop their respective USSDA Northwest Divisional leader boards. Second place Sounders FC U-18s aim to narrow the 5-point gap with a result this weekend, while the U-16s look to get back into playoff position. This marks the first match in a three game home stand for the Academy.
In the Standings
- U-18s are currently second in the Northwest Division with 34 points (11-4-1)
- U-16s are currently fourth in the Northwest Division with 24 points (7-6-3)
- U-14s are currently first in the U-15 Far West Regional League with 9 points (3-0-0)
Standout Performers
U-18 John Magnus had strong performances in both matches, highlighted by 2 assists in a 2-0 victory for the U-18s over Chivas USA.
Joe Hafferty had a solid performance in both matches for the U-16s. His consistent play, defensive presence and leadership in the center of the park helped the squad hold on to a 2-1 lead against Chivas despite going down a man in the 59’. Hafferty also netted the lone goal against the LA Galaxy on Sunday to avoid the shutout.
Play of the Week
U-14 call-up Cameron Martin contributed the second goal in the 2-1 U-16 victory over Chivas USA. Martin read the play developing in the middle third as Joe Hafferty found striker Alex Bradbury in behind the Chivas backline. Bradbury drew the defense’s attention before sending a back post ball with Martin ready to supply the sliding finishing.
One to Watch
Alex Bradbury is hoping to continue his fine form with the U-16s this weekend. The 1999 born player is known for his relentless work ethic and willingness to run in behind opponents.
Coach’s Take
“We are looking forward to another set of matches against MLS competition this weekend. The Whitecaps have an excellent Academy and are always tough opponents.”
-Marc Nicholls, Sounders FC Academy Technical Director
Looking Forward
The U-18 and U-16 squads will look to defend their home turf as they return to Starfire Sports on January 31 against De Anza Force.
