The Adelaide United Youth have defeated Palamos CF 3-0 to progress into next stage of the 2015 Mediterranean International Cup (MIC).
Following their narrow lost to Barcelona earlier in the day, the Young Reds went into the final (and second) match of the day knowing a draw was enough, however they progressed with a comfortable 3-0 win.
CF Palamos came out pressing and tried to intimidate knowing they needed the win. The first half was an arm wrestle as the boys had to physically match the opposition, who were trying to enforce their direct game. The Young Reds kept trying to break them down but were unsuccessful and therefore went into break level at 0-0.
In the second half, the Young Reds’ intensity increased and played for the win rather than the draw. Playing more aggressive in attack, allowed the Youth Team to get behind the opposition defence more. The break through came via a beautiful combination play that led to a penalty, which was converted by Pudler
After the first goal, the game opened up and the Young Reds’ second came through good wing play by De Donatis cutting back for Nestoras to drive into the back of the net.
The final goal was from a dazzling run by youngster McGree who set up a tap in for Gerard.
Youth Team coach Michael Valkanis was very happy with the team’s determination and style.
“It was a very solid performance by the boys,” said Valkanis.
“They were resilient and never gave up, especially durind the second half.
“It’s never easy playing two games in one day, so I am very proud of the boys.
“We will now hit the beach for recovery and then the focus will be on the next round, where we will face CF Lloret.”
The Adelaide United Youth team will take on local Catalonia side, CF Lloret, in the Round of 16 of the 2015 Mediterranean International Cup (MIC).
Class A – Group A
FC Central Los Angeles (USA), Palamos CF (Spain), Barcelona FC (Spain), Adelaide United FC (Australia)
Results
Wednesday 1 April 2015 – Game One
Adelaide United FC 4 (Trimboli, Gerard, McGree, De Donatis)
FC Central Los Angeles 0
Thursday 2 April 2015 – Game Two
FC Barcelona 1
Adelaide United FC 0
Thursday 2 April 2015 – Game Three
Palamos CF
Adelaide United FC 3 (Gerard, Pudler, Nestoras)
Upcoming Fixture
Friday 3 April 2015 – Round of 16
Kick-off 10:00am (local time) (6:30pm ACDT)
CF Lloret v Adelaide United FC
