The San Jose Earthquakes Juniors defeated two-time State Cup Champions Juventus CRS Elite this Sunday in the final match of the U15 Norcal Regional Academy League (RAL) fall season. The 7-3 victory gave the Juniors a 5-0-2 record and the second spot in the elite table. The offensive output was the highest of the year for the young squad, led by U.S. National pool player Amir Bashti and Danny Basulto with two goals each.
"I'm happy with the way this group has progressed this year," said Juniors Head Coach Jeff Jenkins. "Our goal is to develop players for the U16 Earthquakes Academy team which means that over half of our roster consists of U14 and U13 players. Additionally, our players are called up to train and play with the U16 Academy team during the year so it's an extra challenge for our league results, but it provides a great environment for the players."
The U14 Juniors also wrapped up league play in the CYSA Cal Soccer League (CCSL) this weekend with a first place finish, and concluded the first round of group play in the Norcal State Cup Championship with an undefeated record.
The U14 Juniors hit the road next weekend to compete in the Far West Regional League Finals in Lancaster, CA. At stake is a berth to the USYSA Regional Championships, which will be played next June in Phoenix, AZ. The Juniors won their bracket in the first round of play and will face Utah State Cup Champions Sparta 98, USCS National champions Real Tuzos 98, and Fullerton Rangers in next weekend's round-robin competition.
