ECNL BOYS NATIONAL PLAYOFFS DAY 3 RECAP: BUILDING DRAMA

Nothing Left to Give

The ECNL Boys National Playoffs test teams, putting them against teams that are equal in standing, creating some of the best games from the entire ECNL season. Such a game was played between Maryland United and SLSG MO this afternoon in San Diego. 

Maryland United opened its Champions League play against UFA, earning a 1-1 draw. Earning a point was key, and it set up a fantastic match against SLSG MO Monday. 

Despite their best efforts, Maryland United came out flat against SLSG MO, as the boys from Missouri took a 2-0 lead in the first half. Maryland United would not be denied. 

Maryland United came out flying in the second half, quickly cutting the deficit to 2-1. As the half wore on, Maryland United continued to push forward, eventually getting a second goal to knot the game at 2-2. 

With the game now tied at 2-2, both teams aimed to get the final goal and earn a full three points, but both would be denied. At the final whistle. Maryland United and SLSG MO had earned a hard-fought point in the Champions League. 

Now with two draws in two games, Maryland United is sitting in a precarious position. One loss and that could spell the end for the squad. However, with just a win, the team could have a solid lead in Group B for the Knockout stage. With two ties and a match against the top-ranked team, Miramar United up next, one win will be enough to put Maryland United into the Round of 16, with a spot in the ECNL Boys National Finals just one win away from that.