The Mustang U16 United Gold soccer team captured first place in the US Club Soccer National Finals on Aug. 1, the final day of competition in Orlando, Fla. The team’s stamina, patience, athleticism and skill helped it triumph over the PA Classics Blue 88 in penalty kicks to win 5-4.
There was no score after the second overtime period, forcing a penalty kick shootout. Both teams successfully made their first three kicks before the fourth Classics player failed to score. Mustang midfielder Gilberto Guzman made the team’s fourth try, followed by another Classics score. Defender Cameron Walters stepped up and kicked in the championship-winning goal for the top-seeded Mustangs.
“Both teams worked very hard and the conditions were pretty tough to play in,” Mustang head coach Jason Annicchero said, referring to the rolling thunderstorms that threatened to rain out games. “You saw that two teams really wanted the championship today. But my boys keep on fighting, no matter what. I’m very proud of them.”
–Amanda Wight
