Boca Player Captains National Team and scores game winner in Qualify Tournament
KINGSTON,
Jamaica (May 2, 2007) — The U.S. Under-17 Men’s National Team defeated
Canada, 2-1, on Wednesday evening in their second match in Group B of
the 2007 CONCACAF Final Round Qualifying Tournament at the National
Stadium in Kingston, Jamaica.
In a see-saw affair, it was the that came out dominating with an almost flawless performance in the first half, which included goals from Billy Schuler and Mykell Bates. Early in the second half it appeared it would be more of the same, but the Canadians roared back with a tenacious fury and cut the ’s lead in half when forward Cederic Carrie scored in the 54th minute. continued to attack a tiring backline, but goalkeeper Zac MacMath and his defenders were able to hold on for their second victory in as many games.
Defender and Captain Mykell Bates
On the mood of the team after earning six points:
“We’re
very happy. It was a tough win, but we got three points and that’s all
that matters. By winning those two games we’re dictating what we’re
going to do for the rest of the tournament. And that’s a very good
feeling for us.”
On his goal:
“I
checked to and next thing you know I saw the ball. I anticipated the
ball was going to come through and took my time, took a touch and knew
where I wanted to go.”
On the second half letdown:
“We were losing focus as the match went on, and I think fatigue played a part in it. We just need to stay more focused to sustain the 90 minutes.”
The U.S. Under-17 Mens' National Team won the Qualifying group for a 6th time overall. The FIFA U-17 World Cup Draw will take place on May 17th in .
For more details, view the US Soccer website.
Bates has been a member of the Capital Athletic Soccer Academy since he played U10.
