Black Oaks U8 Boys Win Bronze at Torneo dei Presidenti

The Torneo dei Presidenti is the first tournament in which Black Oaks youth soccer has competed as its own club. Well, they had reason to celebrate with some tough, impressive play, placing second in group play and placing third and earning a bronze medal overall via a dramatic penalty kick shoot out.

The Black Oaks started with a 2-0 win against Palo Alto Soccer Club with goals by Gael and Abraham and an impressive shutout for David in goal. The second game was a 1-6 whipping by the San Jose Arsenal with the Oaks looking tired against a powerful attacking team. The final group matchup was an edgy 1-1 tie against host team Juventus. Oaks went through to the finals by 1 point on goal differential over Juventus.

In the consolation final, the Black Oaks came out with tough pressure against the Mountain View Los Altos Lynx. Forward Speedy earned a nice goal, but the Lynx had some good chances. In the second half it went both ways, but the Oaks appeared to tire, leaving the door for the Lynx to equalize 1-1. The Black Oaks defense held strong through overtime with strong play from Logan and Rafinoe at fullback and David in goal.

The game came down to penalty kicks. The Black Oaks looked to crash out early with their first-choice shooters missing. David kept hopes alive in goal with some key blocks as the two teams tied after five shots each. It went to extra shooters with David making several saves. The Black Oaks won the game when Rafinoe stepped up and put it by the goalie and goalie David blocked the next kick.

The win gave the Black Oaks a third place finish in a Gold Level tournament, earning a bronze medal for the trophy case and some valuable experience.

Congratulations to the coaches Luis, Tony, Aiden and Jerry. Thanks to family and fans who made the trip down to Redwood City and for believing in the Santa Rosa Black Oaks Soccer Club.