Big Crowd Expected as STL CITY Academy and St. Louis Scott Gallagher Clash in Their First MLS Next Showdown
St. Louis CITY SC academy teams will continue their MLS NEXT season when they battle local neighbors, St. Louis Scott Gallagher, on Saturday, November 13. The games will be played at the World Wide Technology Soccer Park Field #1, with the U16s kicking off at 5 p.m. CST, and the U17s closing out the evening at 7 p.m. CST.
In their last MLS NEXT matchup, STL CITY’s U16s ran away with a dominant 3-1 victory over Michigan Jaguars to extend their perfect record in MLS NEXT competition. The boys started the game slowly but once they found their stride, they controlled the game and overpowered their opponents in every aspect. The team will look to make it eight wins in eight games when they face a hungry St. Louis Scott Gallagher team, who are coming off a defeat in MLS NEXT.
“These are the games you dream about as a player and coach,” said David Critchley, St. Louis CITY Academy Assistant Coach. “We are expecting a good battle, but the lads are fully focused on the job and excited for the opportunity to compete in front of the local fans. It is important that we remain disciplined and stay true to our way of playing regardless of who is in front of us.”
STL CITY U17 team secured a well-earned point in their last outing against Houston Dynamo, to extend their unbeaten streak to five games. The boys showed why their attack is a force to be reckoned with, as they created chances at will against a strong Houston team. STL CITY will look to put on another strong performance when they face a motivated St. Louis Scott Gallagher team, who are currently on a four-game losing streak.
“This is a great opportunity for our players and coaches to compete in front of the local fans,” explained Lutz Pfannenstiel, St. Louis CITY Sporting Director. “These games are usually intense, but that is what our playing style demands from the boys. We are expecting a good match, but we must stay true to our principles. We want to attack our opponents and make it difficult for them on the other end. I am confident that we can put on a good performance for everyone who shows up to the game.”
COACHES’ NOTES
Here’s what the St. Louis CITY SC Academy Coaches expect to see heading into this week’s match:
- Start the game on the front foot
- Defensive discipline is key – choose the right moments to press the opponents
- Remain hungry for goals and maintain our composure in front of the goal
- Stay locked in mentally and emotionally
To learn more about the academy, find player bios and rosters here.
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