Australia thrashed Bermuda 4-1 in their opening game before coming back from two goals down to beat Chile 5-4 in one of the team’s greatest ever results.
The Young Socceroos needed to beat the USA in their final game to win the tournament but were forced to settle for a 0-0 draw with the hosts claiming the title on goal differential.
“The match tonight was a very tough match against a top class opponent,” Okon said.
“I am very proud of the way our team have played in this tournament and we came across a difficult opponent tonight that were well organised and are a good team.
“Our players are in pre-season at the moment and the USA team players are in the middle of the MLS season and we were able to match them which is a positive sign.”
The tournament was intended to give Australian-based players international experience and Okon said he was pleased with the team’s performances in California.
“The purpose of this tournament was to come here and play 3 quality opponents that will assist in preparing the team for the AFC U-19 Championships in October,” Okon said.
“The trip has been a great success and I couldn’t be happier with our the team performed and applied themselves throughout the 10 days.
“We now look forward to continuing our preparation with a training camp in Sydney in two weeks time.”
Australian National Team Manager Simon Roberts hailed the tournament as a huge success and lauded US Soccer for running and organising the event.
“We would like to thank US Soccer and Jim Moorhouse and his team for a great run tournament, the logistics around the team operations and the tournament have been first class and it is acredit to US Soccer to put on such a successful tournament,” he said.
“The Australian U-20 National team is privileged to be part of such a great tournament and look forward to strengthening our relationship in the future.”
Source : Football Federation Australia
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