Fresh off the New York Red Bulls' U-18s claiming a second straight USDA Championship, MLSsoccer.com compiled a brief list of the Top 5 performers from the finals. Given their play during the championship run - not to mention their outstanding and consistent play during the regular season as well - it's no surprise to see the names Ethan Decker and Alex Muyl atop the list.
During the team's 19-1-5 regular season run, it seemed like not a week would go by when at least one of the players wasn't mentioned as a goal scorer. The dynamic duo made for a dangerous attacking front for the Red Bulls, only further personified by Decker's game-tying, 23-yard blast that found the back of the net in Saturday's 2-1 win over Shattuck-St. Mary's.
Decker, who finished second overall in the rankings, certainly turned some heads:
"New York’s roster is another one that is loaded with talent and Decker (above) is part of that collection. The New Jersey native makes smart runs and has a nose for the ball. Scouts and coaches said the University of Connecticut commit has the quality you want in a front man, including the ability to find the ball in dangerous spaces and finish. He punctuated his week with a 30-yard golazo in the U-18 final."
Similar to the Decker-Muyl tandem up front for the Red Bulls, it's only fair to see Muyl right next to his teammate in the rankings.
Here's what MLSsoccer.com had to say about the No. 1 spot:
"Muyl was impressive as a 16-year-old at this tournament last year and his game has taken a step up since. The skill that separated him in 2012 from others is still there, but now comes at a faster pace. The Georgetown University commit is skilled on the ball and his ability to cut through a defense and finish were on full display with his four group-stage goals this week."
Midfielder Arun Basuljevic, who registered the game-winner in double overtime Saturday evening, was also named in the "others to watch" section of the piece.
Check out the full list of top performers over at MLSsoccer.com.
