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Red Bull New York Press Release - www.mlsnet.com/t107

Friday, August 22, 2008

NEW YORK – The U-15 Red Bulls completed their Super Y-League season unbeaten with a 14-0-1 record, winning the Mid-Atlantic Division Title. The Red Bulls were the only unbeaten team in their division, and won the Mid-Atlantic Division by an impressive 12 points. The division title qualifies the team for the Super Y-League North American Finals, which will be held in Tampa, FL in November.

The Red Bull U15’s, under the guidance of head coach Stan Matlak, altogether had an impressive 2008 campaign, compiling a 24-1-2 record in all competitions and successfully defended their New Jersey State Cup championship.

"During the beginning of the season it was unknown how the team would perform, as many new players were added and mixing new players with returning players is a process that takes time," stated Matlak. "During the preseason the team came together and early friendly results with older teams made us very optimistic about their potential."

The team kicked off the season at the well renowned Dr Pepper Dallas Cup XXIX in Frisco, TX. The team won two of three matches in group play, with the lone loss coming on a late goal. That one loss, though, prevented the U15’s from advancing to the knockout stage, which was a disappointment to the team and coaching staff, which had high hopes entering the tournament.

"Throughout the season, in all competitions, many players contributed at different times, and it was nice to see that anyone from the team was able to step up and make the difference during any game," commented Matlak. "Games were played always at a high pace, the team dictated the pace in every game, the style of play, for the most part was good to watch, and I could not ask for more from the players during the games.

“Players were very dedicated,” added Matlak. “I was very fortunate to work with these players and I enjoyed every practice and every game during 2008 season. In my opinion, many of the U15’s are very talented players with big potential for the Red Bulls’ future."

It was difficult for Coach Matlak to highlight any players because almost all of them improved and contributed in games. However, he selected a few players that stood out from others in some qualities and provided some key words to describe them:

Bryan Gallego (Defense) - Captain, leader on the team, dedication, good technical and tactical abilities, exceptional center defender.

John Agudelo (Midfield) - Very talented player, exceptional technical skills, great passing abilities, great vision etc. In my opinion the most talented player in RBNY Academy (all teams). Unfortunately, was injured many times during the season. Called up for U-17 US National Team, but could not go because of injury.

Keith Francisco (Midfield) - Similar qualities to Agudelo, crafty technical player with scoring abilities.

Jonathan Gonzalez (Forward) – He scored 28 goals on the season with great scoring abilities in the penalty box. Is very physical, difficult to defend, has good pace, and a promising future.