Academy Director Reflects on U-19s’ London Experience

NYCFC’s U-19 team traveled to London for a week earlier this month to take on English opposition in a series of friendly matches. The trip included games vs. Fulham, Reading and Brentford as the Boys in Blue warmed up for the U-18/19 Development Academy season restart this coming weekend.

“The high level of competition, coupled with the training days provides a mini-preseason for the team to start the spring season prepared,” said Sam Pugsley, NYCFC Academy Director. “Anytime we can play top level clubs on an international level, this helps the players get out of their comfort zone and ultimately aids development.”

Facing off against more experienced teams, it was the perfect preparation for the Regular Season and for the Dallas Cup which is coming up in April.

Not only was this trip a training experience, it was also a cultural experience. The youths had the opportunity to visit sites like Buckingham Palace, Kensington Palace, and Hyde Park. They also went to watch Chelsea take on Dynamo Kiev at Stamford Bridge in the UEFA Europa League. 

The U-19s returned home on March 11, to begin preparation for the Regular Season which kicks off on March 16 against Oakwood Soccer Club at home at St. Johns University. 

Results

NYCFC U-19 vs. Fulham U-19 - 1-1 D (Osaze De Rosario)
NYCFC U-19 vs. Reading U-18 - 3-1 L (Tayvon Gray) 
NYCFC U-19 vs. Brentford B U-23 - 2-1 L (Will Sands)