USL Match Report

Monday, November 23, 2009

TAMPA – Mountain WFC U15 boys stepped to the brink of the 2009 Super Y-League North American Championship following a 2-0 defeat of Schulz Academy, Monday afternoon at Ed Radice Sports Complex.

In a battle of two undefeated powers, Mountain (10-0-3 overall) had the better run of the play the entire match, with Schulz (13-0-2) mustering just two shots on goal over 80 minutes of play.

MWFC got on the board after 11 minutes with captain Jason Van Bleak (pictured right) heading home a corner kick from winger Anthony Bordignon. The central defender rose above his Schulz marker, heading a powerful ball past Academy goakeeper Akiel Shabazz.

The Vancouver area club doubled their lead when striker Gilbert Kyne sent a cutting ball to the right side of the 18, putting attacking midfielder Tanner Wright in alone on goal, where he slotted the ball to the left side netting in the 27th minute.

MWFC’s domination continued towards the end of the half when Wright and then Kyne hit the crossbar within seconds of each other in the 36th minute.

The second half was more evenly played, but Schulz weren’t able to muster a decent chance on goal until the 78th minute when defensive midfielder Troy Manheimmer pressed Mountain goalkeeper Jordan Campbell into service, powering a blistering effort towards the left post. Campbell dove to make the save, preserving the shutout against the previous unbeaten Academy team.

“This match was a battle for us,” said Mountain WFC head coach Andrea Agnoloni. “We came out with good composure but missed some chances that could have put the game out of reach. We look forward to tomorrow’s final.”

Mountain will look to finish the job against RSL Florida in Tuesday’s final at 11:30 am. RSL defeated Westchester Flames 3-0 in Monday’s other semifinal.