The Sydney FC U14 Academy side recently travelled to Thailand for the U14 Diamond Cup and returned with plenty of football and life experience during a tournament in some tough conditions.
Coming up against teams from around Asia, the boys spent just under a week in the hot and humid conditions of Bangkok and came up against some of the most talented players in the continent.
Lead by their Head Coach Mark Doyle & Assistant Coach Callum Arnold, the entire squad headed north of the equator and took on Japanese side Urawa Red Diamonds in the opening match in a thrilling 3-3 draw.
On day two, they followed that draw up with a victory against Bangkok Sports School, winning out 3-1 and on day three secured a solid and gritty 1-0 win over hosts Muangthong United to set up a clash with fellow Thai side Assumption United in the final.
In testing conditions after three days of consecutive games, the boys unfortunately fell at the final hurdle but can be proud of their efforts across the entire tournament.
Youth Technical Director – Kelly Cross was thrilled with the attitude of the team throughout their time in Thailand.
“Exposure to international competition is a huge learning opportunity for a young player.
“This tournament has given our boys a lot to think about in terms of their long-term development and we are pleased with how they handled themselves in and around the tournament,” he said.
“Top players need to get used to matches in different climates and cultural conditions, so this has been very beneficial for them and we look forward to them taking these learnings into their matches back in Sydney.”
A special mention should also go to the Sydney FC U13’s who stepped up back home in Sydney and played two games while their older counterparts were still away.
