U13 Boys Premier – Disney Junior Showcase Recap

The U13 Boys Premier team had a vibrant performance at the Disney Junior Showcase held over Thanksgiving weekend in Orlando.

The boys started off the tournament with a 1-0 victory over a Florida team -Indian Harbour Beach’s Three Lions- with a goal from Ricardo Castro in the first half of the match. Later on that day, their opponent was a team from Georgia- Augusta Arsenal Gunners. Weston took advantage early in the first half of the game, with Justin Santos opening the score board followed by Nikki Pappacena with a second one. Towards the end of the second half, Castro scored the third goal ending the game 3-0.

Like Weston, Chicago Blast Red- the other team in the bracket - had two wins the previous day. In a very tight game, the Fury scored the first goal after 20 minutes off a free kick by Javier Clavijo that went to Nikki Pappacena, who put the ball in the back of the net. Ten minutes into the second half, a penalty was called against Weston and Chicago tied the game. Towards the end of the second half, Chicago scored again on a breakaway, winning 2-1.

The U13B Premier earned the wildcard spot to advance to the semi-finals on Sunday morning against Solar 95 Red from Texas. The Fury boys played their hearts out with a tremendous display against a robust opponent. The Fury defense stood out in this game as they were only team to hold the eventual champions scoreless. The game went to double overtime with a 0-0 score and ended up in a Penalty Shoot-out, which was won by the Texas team. Solar 95 Red went onto win the championship.

"The team played better and better with each game, building from our experience the weekend before at the CASL tournament. We can’t wait to play these top teams again!" reflected Coach Leo Vega after the tournament.