MLS Next: 6 U-17 standouts from Oakwood SC vs. FC Greater Boston Bolts

Oakwood's U-17 team is now 5-0 in the spring following Saturday's win over FC Greater Boston Bolts. (Matt Doherty).

NEWTON, Mass. — Even though Saturday’s U-17 match between Oakwood and FC Greater Boston Bolts had no MLS Next Flex implications, it still featured a playoff-like atmosphere.

The two sides battled in a competitive back-and-forth affair that included high-level play and even some chippiness down the stretch. FC Greater Boston Bolts struck first. But Oakwood netted the equalizer right before halftime on a goal by standout forward Asah Noble.

The second half brought the best out of both teams until Rodrigo Lancho Lopez scored the winner for Oakwood with 10 minutes left. The victory marked another impressive performance by Oakwood under new director Adriano Allain, who was hired in November. Oakwood is now 5-0 in the spring after going 1-8-3 in the fall.

Despite the loss, FC Greater Boston Bolts are still third in the Flex standings and first in the league. They flashed their upside, especially in the first half.

Let’s dive into six standouts from the match.