The Red Bulls Academy added a major piece of hardware to its trophy case on Monday, as the Under-16 academy squad took home the U.S. Soccer Development Academy Finals Week crown with a 1-0 victory over St Louis Scott Gallagher Missouri. Alex Muyl scored the all-important lone goal of the match.
The Red Bulls defense stayed strong throughout, led by shot stopper Evan Louro, who made four key saves on the night. It was Louro and the Red Bulls’ third straight shutout, as the team went a perfect 4-0 during Finals Week at BBVA Compass Stadium in Houston, Texas.
New York's head coach Hans Backe kept a close eye on the progress of the Under-16 tournament and couldn't have been more satisfied with the result.
"I am very happy for the Under-16 squad that won the championship," Backe said. "It is a fantastic achievement and I want to congratulate the coaches and players for their hard work."
Muyl, who was named the USSoccer.com Man of the Match, broke through for the Red Bulls in the 16th minute. Adam Najem slipped a pass through to Muyl on the right side, and Muyl made no mistake about it, slipping the ball past the keeper at the near post. For Muyl, it was his team-leading 17th goal, an impressive mark in 26 games played.
Led by Head Coach Rob Elliott, the Under 16s finished their season unbeaten in their final 12 overall matches, posting a record of 10-0-2 over season’s final two months.
