STL CITY Academy Teams Play Host to Michigan Wolves and Vardar Academy Teams
St. Louis CITY SC Academy teams resume their MLS NEXT season this weekend when they face Michigan Wolves on Saturday, October 23, and Vardar Soccer Club on Sunday, October 24. Both games on Saturday will be played at Creve Coeur Park Soccer Complex Field #1, with the U16 game starting at 9 a.m. CST, and the U17 team kicking off at 11 a.m. CST. The following day, both teams will play at 9 a.m. CST, with the U17s playing on Field 1 and the U16s on Field 2.
STL CITY’s U17 team had an impressive start in their victory over FC Dallas last weekend, with three first half goals helping the team maintain their perfect record at home. The boys will be eager to carry over their form when they face a stern Michigan Wolves team who currently boast a 4-2-1 record. Similarly, Vardar who are on a four-game win streak, will be looking to hand STL CITY their first home defeat this season.
“For us, this is another week to get better and compete in front of our home fans,” explained Luis Swisher, St. Louis CITY Academy Assistant Coach. “Like I have always said, the focus cannot be on our opponents but on how we can continue to develop our playing style. There were a lot of positives from last weekend’s game and we are looking to build on that.”
The U16 team is back in MLS NEXT action for the first time since their win against Indiana Fire Academy. Since then, the team won three of their friendly games played against U16 competition, scoring 11 goals throughout that period. STL CITY will come up against a hungry Michigan Wolves team, who have won one game in their last four outings and a misfiring Vardar team who are still looking for their first MLS NEXT win.
“The lads have done a great job all season,” said David Critchley, St. Louis CITY Academy Assistant Coach. “I have been impressed with how the guys have maintained the principles of our playing style regardless of the opponents. As a team we pride ourselves on our defensive effort, so we are looking for a clean sheet in both games this weekend.
COACHES’ NOTES
Here’s what the St. Louis CITY SC Academy Coaches expect to see heading into this week’s matches:
- With two games this weekend, we have to utilize the depth of our squad
- Activate our pressing at the right moments to maintain our tactical advantage
- Capitalize on our chances in front of goal
To learn more about the academy, find player bios and rosters here.
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