Welcome to Episode 252 of Defenders of the Banc! Normally, this space is reserved for some witty commentary and a recap of the episode. But today, in its place, we choose to use this as an appreciation post to the young kids who put forth such a valiant effort against Carson in the 2023 U.S. Open Cup Round of 16. Yes, they fell, 2-0. But there would be nothing to hang their heads about! So, instead of a write-up, here are the names and ages of many of the players who took the pitch for LAFC tonight: 

Javen Romero and Diego Rosales, 17. Erik Duenas and Matheus Maia, 18. Nathan Ordaz, Christian Torres, Armando Avila, Christopher Jaime, and Yekeson Subah, all 19. Stipe Biuk and Julian Gaines, 20. Mahala and Mati Bogusz, 21.

The future is almost here, and it's looking very, very bright indeed! 

Our next episode will certainly be a treat! We are helping to gather the heads of the LAFC #PodFam Families for a CCL Final Superpod, to be recorded Sunday, May 28. No decision on whether it will be LIVE or not, but it will most certainly be fun! Enjoy 252!