U12 boys team will represent Northern California in the Western
Regional tournament in New Mexico in June and the San Diego Surf
Cup in July
MORGAN HILL — Impact coach Joe Cordeiro only wanted one thing for Valentine’s day: a second consecutive California Youth Soccer Association State Cup championship.
Feb. 14, his Portugese Athletic Club gave him his wish with a thrilling double-overtime win over the Juventus Heat of Redwood City in the U12 boys division at the Outdoor Sports Center.
After dominating the preliminary rounds with three consecutive shutout victories, Impact was in unfamiliar territory. Three top players were sidelined with injuries, and another was red carded during a quarterfinal game, leading to a two-game suspension. The defense and goalkeeper Carlos Arroyo were forced to take over by stifling all offense generated by opposing teams.
The Impact outscored its opponents 9-1 in the six tournament games.
“It just shows the character of this team. It shows that no one player can do it alone,” Cordeiro said. “I am proud of my boys for coming together and getting it done.”
In the Feb. 14 championship game, Jueventus took a one-goal lead with a quick strike in the first half. Bruised and battered, Impact clawed back when Alejandro Flores chipped a ball over the goalkeeper to tie the game.
It wasn’t until the second sudden-death overtime that the game was decided. After a handball near midfield, Noel Perez blasted a free kick that handcuffed the Juventus goalkeeper, trickling through his legs.
With two unanswered goals, Impact further showed that they are one of the best U12 boys soccer teams in California. Impact will represent Northern California in the Western Regional tournament in New Mexico in June and the San Diego Surf Cup in July.
Made up of players from Morgan Hill, San Martin, Gilroy and Hollister, Impact represented Orchard Valley Youth Soccer Association of Morgan Hill when it won the State Cup in 2009. The club separated from OVYSL afterward.
In March 2009, the PAC welcomed Impact — and now has a State Cup championship as its reward.
“It is unfortunate that the 2010 trophy will not stay in Morgan Hill, but PAC has been very generous,” Cordeiro said. “We are proud to represent them, and we are thankful for their support.”
Impact players: Carlos Arroyo, Anthony Ambriz, Alexis Bandala, Dylan Carrubba, Elijah Chango, Alek Cordeiro, Alejandro Flores, Uriel Gonzales, Andres Jimenez, Jordan Juarez, Brenden Park, Noel Perez, Jorge Morales-Reyes, Luke Newquist, Damian Zuniga. Impact coaches: Joe Cordeiro, Alejandro Flores, Frank Juarez, Tony Jimenez.
