CHICAGO (March 7, 2023) - The Chicago Fire Academy returns home after a successful weekend road trip to West Virginia that saw the academy record two victories and a draw in MLS NEXT play. All teams were in action except the U-17 roster, who had a bye weekend before heading on the road themselves to take on the Indiana Fire Academy on Saturday, March 11.
U-13 Academy
The youngest of four academies kicked things off this weekend for the Fire on the road. Facing off against Beadling SC, the U-13 Academy were able to get record a point in a 3-3 draw. Leading the charge offensively for the Fire was Xavi Cervantes who recorded a brace in the game. Also tallying a goal was Preston Brown. With the point, Chicago remains in fifth place of the Mid-America division, sitting one point behind the Michigan Wolves.
Another road trip awaits the U-13s as they head to Grand Rapids, Mich. to take on Midwest United FC on Sunday, March 8 at 2:00 p.m. CT.
U-14 Academy
One of the hottest teams in MLS NEXT continues their red-hot play. The U-14's have extended their undefeated to 15 games with last Sunday’s 6-0 rout against Beadling SC. Led by goals from Jesus Ronaldo Garcia, Robert Turdean, Nolan Weiss, Gavin Paveno, Hugo Berg, and an own goal from Beadling, the Fire claimed all three points with authority. Turdean also contributed with two assists to help lift Chicago to the victory.
The team will enjoy a bye weekend before returning to the SeatGeek Stadium turf field on Saturday, March 18 to take on Cincinnati United Premier at 1:00 p.m. CT.
U-15 Academy
Rounding out the weekend was the U-15 Academy with a 2-1 win over Beadling SC on the road. With the win, they extended a streak of their own to 14 games, including 11 straight in MLS NEXT Flex play. Led by goals from Aaron Ineh and Liam Healey, the U-15's are now a perfect 11-0-0 in the Flex standings. They now sit alone at the top of the Mid-America division following a loss from the Columbus Crew Academy.
They’ll look to extend their division lead against the Indiana Fire Academy at the Grand Park Sports Complex in Westfield, Ind. at 12:00 p.m. CT.
