Thanks to a 2-1 win over FC Heat on April 24th, DMCV Sharks GU14 Brian Smith are now 2016 State Cup champions. The girls powered through numerous hard
Thanks to a 2-1 win over FC Heat on April 24th, DMCV Sharks GU14 Brian Smith are now 2016 State Cup champions. The girls powered through numerous hard-fought matches in the group stage and knockout round of the tournament, but emerged with a title in hand.
In an interview with Soccer Nation, coach Smith described the dramatic final and his goals for the successful squad in the near future.
“The final, like our quarter and semi final games was a tough battle, both physically and mentally,” said Smith. “We led 2-0 with 5 minutes to go in the game, then Heat scored, and that made the last five minutes pretty frantic, but the team held strong and the players were absolutely thrilled to hear the final whistle.”
With a championship won, the coach has now set his sights on the upcoming season and a return to the tournament.
“For the spring, we are going to re-group, re-charge and recuperate. We’ll play in a number of tournaments in the summer to prepare for the SCDSL season in the fall, and all being well, play in the President’s division of Cal South’s State Cup in 2017.”
Smith was also quick to point out his players who were fantastic during the competition. “I’m very fortunate to coach a great group of hard working, honest and determined players – they dug deep to win the tournament, with a number of them playing through many games with injuries.”
Congratulations to the GU14 squad and coach Smith for the title! We will be sure to keep an eye on the impressive progress of the team.
