There’s nothing like some high-level competition to begin a season with high expectations.
As last year’s Ontario Cup and GHSLLeague Cup champions, the Milton Magic U14 Blue boys know all too well the pressure-filled year that awaits.
“We will have the target on our backs, and each game will be a battle,” said coach Andy Garcia.
To that end, an impressive performance at Italy’s invitational-only Lazio Cup this spring was an ideal way to kick off 2024.
With what Garcia called a team-first attitude and nine different players finding the back of the net, the Magic scored back-to-back wins after a first-round loss to reach the quarterfinals.
They looked poised to extend their tournament run, scoring twice in the second half – after falling behind 3-0 – before falling just short against Villalba.
A first-round 3-1 loss to Frosinone was followed by 6-0 and 3-2 victories over Atletico Veroli and Sora respectively, while Milton split a pair of 4-0 friendlies decisions – besting Atletico Veroli and losing to S.S. Lazio.
Said Garcia, “Everyone played to their strengths. The team absolutely exceeded our expectations. We will be stronger and better because of this experience.”