NYCFC u16s rounded off their 2016 calendar with an impressive showing in the Development Academy Winter Showcase last weekend.
Matt Pilkington’s side gave a good account of themselves at the Premier Sports Campus in Lakewood, Florida, taking part in matches against FC Dallas, SJ Earthquakes and Crew SC Academy Wolves.
Following a defeat to FC Dallas in Friday’s opener, NYCFC followed up with a tie against San Jose before rounding off with a 1-0 victory against Crew SC Academy Wolves, thanks to a goal from Gio Reyna.
That victory was shown live on YouTube on Monday, giving supporters across the globe a chance to glimpse the future of NYCFC.
Watch: NYCFC U16s v Crew SC Academy Wolves
Thirston Briscoe scored the team’s other goal in the 1-1 draw against the Earthquakes and Coach Pilkington was delighted with this latest step in the squad’s development.
Pilkington told NYCFC.com: “The showcase was a great experience for the players with exposure to teams and styles from all across the country (Dallas, San Jose, Michigan).
“With a very young squad, the players performed well in each of the games and have continued to develop over the course of the season.”
The Development Academy Winter Showcase provides Academy teams meaningful games against a variety of competition from throughout the country.
The event focuses on player, coach and referee development and also serves as a premier opportunity for talent identification.
The Winter Showcase schedule featured 219 games and the matchups were selected to provide competitive games, as well as highlight clubs who exemplify the Academy philosophy.
That’s the last u16 engagement of 2016 with the boys returning to action after the holidays.
