Timbers U15 and U17 teams take part in showcase tournament that includes over 350 of the best youth soccer teams across the U.S. and Canada
The Timbers U-15 and U-17 teams concluded play last week at the 2023 MLS NEXT Fest in Phoenix, Ariz. Over 350 of the best youth teams across the U.S. and Canada came to compete at the third annual showcase event. Each team played three matches over the course of the tournament with rankings and club bragging rights on the line.
In PTFC's first action, the U-17's took on a top-ranked New York City FC, coming out 3-2 winners with goals from Bryce Voorhis, Max Eisenberg, and Callum Lugton. On top of an emphatic offensive display, Keenan Van Pelt made some spectacular stops in goal to see out the result.
In their second match, the U-17s took on the other club from the Big Apple in the New York Red Bulls. After conceding early on, Noah Santos put on a dazzling performance, drawing and converting a late penalty to see his side capture a point and remain undefeated in Phoenix.
The next match saw the U-15's open their tournament against a formidable Toronto FC side as the Reds ran away 2-0 winners. Despite the loss, the boys were in full voice and held their own in the affair.
The U-17s closed out their tournament dropping a 1-0 result to Nashville in their final match. Darren Back's side would finish the showcase with a 2-0-1 record.
The U-15s were back in action the following day as they faced FC Cincinnati. After going down early, August Nystrom pulled PTFC back via a well-worked set piece to level the match at 1-1. His celebration was one for the books:
Unfortunately the boys would concede another goal and drop a 2-1 result to the Eastern Conference side.
Looking to bounce back from back-to-back loses, the final matchup for the U-15s saw them face a ranked Charlotte FC side as they aimed to end the tournament on a high note. It did not look great early on as the Rose City side went into the half down 2-0. However, powered by an own goal and strikes from Elias Douratsos-Walker and Francisco Sillas, the 15s rallied to take home a 3-2 victory.
A successful tournament for both sides as they will look to come back strong in the New Year before heading to the Generation adidas Cup in the spring.
Scroll on below for more photos from the tournament in Arizona.
