By James Sablan
[email protected]
Variety News Staff
IN a commanding display of offensive prowess and defensive discipline, MP United FC secured its first victory in the U17 boys division of the TakeCare Youth Soccer League Spring 2026 season, silencing Matansa Football Club, 5-0, on Saturday at the NMI Soccer Training Center in Koblerville.
MPU’s attack was relentless from the opening whistle. After 20 minutes of back-and-forth action, the team began breaking through MFC’s defensive line and creating quality scoring opportunities.
In the 24th minute, MPU found itself deep in enemy territory, maintaining calm possession before connecting with Justine Lee down the middle. Lee fired an uncontested shot that slipped past the goalkeeper to give MPU the 1-0 advantage.
MPU sustained the pressure and doubled its lead just five minutes later off a corner kick delivered by Taiga Namai-Scoggins.
Namai-Scoggins remained the biggest threat throughout the second half, completing a hat trick with back-to-back goals in the 42nd and 47th minutes to put the match out of reach.
Before the final whistle, James Van Dam added the finishing touch, scoring in the 49th minute to seal the 5-0 shutout over MFC.
Other games
Also victorious in the U17 boys division were Paire Football Club, which posted a dominant 13-0 win over Latte Football Club 2, and Latte Football Club 1, which blanked the Women’s Developmental Team, 4-0.
James Sablan has been a sports reporter for Variety since 2013. He was a liberal arts student of Northern Marianas College and covers all local sports.
