FRISCO, Texas - The FC Dallas Academy U-15s had their GA Cup dreams dashed after a 1-0 defeat to FC Cincinnati in its final GA Cup group stage match Monday night at Toyota Soccer Center.
The U-15s entered the game needing a win to guarantee entry into the tournament knockout round. Coach Alex Aldaz's team earned a hard-fought win Sunday to stay in the hunt after an opening game defeat to Real Salt Lake but it wasn't enough as their second loss ensures Dallas can finish no higher than third in Group D.
Cincinnati had the first shot of the night when its right midfielder ran behind his defender but his shot was high and wide. Dallas goalkeeper Jonathan Martinez was busy early on, making two good saves within the first 15 minutes.
Dallas had two excellent chances right before the halftime break. Jeydan Arboleda found space on the left wing and sent in a dangerous low cross but Cincinnati’s defense held firm. Following a Dallas corner, Zachary Molomo sent a header through to leading scorer Brice Miller who was able to poke the ball past the on-rushing keeper but his effort was cleared off the goal line.
Molomo was involved offensively again early in the second half when he beat Cincy’s backline but his shot was high over the bar. Both teams struggled to create chances but Cincinnati found the breakthrough from the penalty spot after Martinez was whistled for a foul in the box.
