GREENSBORO, N.C. — The Columbus Express 08 Boys Orange jumped out to an early lead Friday, but came away with its second loss in as many days, a 3-1 setback to Azetecas FC 08B (PBF) from North Texas in the US Youth Soccer National Championships Presidents Cup.
Angel Espejel converted an unassisted goal less than 10 minutes into the game. But the Aztecas tied the game in the closing seconds of the first half.
In the second half, Espejel and Parker Gribbons each put shots off the post. The Aztecas scored the go-ahead goal with about 10 minutes remaining before adding an insurance goal late in the match.
The Express Orange also had fallen 3-1 against 08 Boys Pre MLS NEXT from Pittsburgh in Thursday’s opening game of pool play.
“We played a lot better than we did on Thursday,” Express Orange coach Sam LaVelle said. “The competition was at a higher level than what we have seen before. We were able to hold our own for 60 of the 70 minutes game. We were creating chances and controlling the game. Just could not come together the last few minutes of the game.”
The loss effectively eliminates the Express Orange from contention to play in Sunday’s 14U Boys championship game, which matches the top two teams in the four-team pool. They finish pool play at 8 a.m. today against Antelope Valley FC boys 2008 from Southern California.
The Express Orange is the first team ever from the Columbus Express Soccer Club to qualify for the national championships.
“This group is sad to come back to Columbus without a trophy,” LaVelle said. “However, they have represented our city and our club very well. They understand that what they have accomplished this season — made history. We are looking to build off of our success from this season to achieve even more.”
