FC Dallas captures both Dev. Academy crowns

by Travis Clark

July 17, 2016

For the first time in the history of the Development Academy, one club has won both the U16 and U18 national titles.

FC Dallas triumphed in both championship matches, defeating LA Galaxy in the U16 clash and beating Vancouver Whitecaps in the U18 finale.

Below is a quick recap of how both matches played out.

U16: FC Dallas 2-0 LA Galaxy

Goal in the early minutes of each half were enough for FCD in its clash with one of the U16 age group's best squads, as FCD held off LA 2-0.

Aldo Quevedo opened the scoring in the 18th minute to put FC Dallas up by a goal. Eight minutes after the break, Jesus Ferreira Castro extended the lead with a nice finish.

.@FCDallasYouth GOAL by Jesus Ferreira in the 53'! Dallas 2, Galaxy 0. #AcademyChampionships pic.twitter.com/jS2NmQl02q
— U.S. Soccer Academy (@ussoccer_acad) July 17, 2016

That proved to be enough on the day, as FCD was able to shackle LA's dynamic attack for the rest of the afternoon.

U18: FC Dallas 2-1 Vancouver Whitecaps (aet)

With the majority of the U16 championship roster returned, FC Dallas successfully defended its national title, defeating the Whitecaps in extra time.

The Canadian side jumped to an early lead, however, as Vana Markarian found the back of the net in the 10th minute.

Scores would remain level until halftime and beyond. The minutes were ticking off the clock, when a cut back found Devin Vega at the top of the box. The Clemson commit hit a wormburner that eluded Vancouver's GK to tie the game.

GOAL from @FCDallasYouth's #11 Devin Vega in the 81' to tie the U-17/18 Final, 1-1! #AcademyChampionships pic.twitter.com/jS2oOIhUhJ
— U.S. Soccer Academy (@ussoccer_acad) July 17, 2016

Juan Ramirez orchastrated the dramatics with a close-range finish to seal the victory, scoring in the 107th minute of extra time.

Related Topics: Development Academy, Atlantic Coast