Unless you have been living under a rock, you are aware that Aquino is having a breakout sophomore season. That stock rising trend continued against Hill Academy as Aquino popped off for six goals. His quick burst, size, and filthy shooting skills created serious matchup issues for Hill Academy’s defensive unit. The variety of ways in which Aquino scored yesterday was astonishing. On one goal, Aquino initiated from X and finished with a twister. On another, he dodged down the right alley and scored via an overhand. His third goal came on a play where he received a clear at half field and then raced through the Hill Academy defense before firing the ball past the goalie. Of course, Aquino also put one on the board via a powerful 18-yard rip into the top shelf. On Tuesday, Aquino also ran at attack for a stretch, which was an interesting strategy wrinkle by the Hill School coaching staff.

Aquino’s incredible offensive performances early this season are a major reason Hill School is off to a 6-1 start and holds the No. 15 ranking in the country. The long and multi-skilled midfielder poured in five goals in a win over Gill St. Bernard (NJ) and recorded a hat trick during Hill’s defeat of Worthington Kilbourne (Ohio). He also notched two goals against Brunswick (CT). Aquino’s speed, elusive moves, and ability to score with either hand have made him extremely difficult to defend 1v1. He has excelled at initiating from the wing or up top and then finding open space for a rip. His step-down shooting has been a legitimate weapon, too. Over the first month of the season, Aquino has pinged corners from long range with both his right and left hand.    

Aquino is an explosive midfielder who this past weekend had the NLF Fall Invite buzzing after his 3-goal performance in 91 Venom’s win over Laxachusetts. Thanks to his size, speed, change of direction moves and filthy stick skills, Aquino excelled in transition. He also used those same assets in 6v6 action to blow past his man from up top and then charge through the sliding defenders for scoring opportunities on the run. Plus, Aquino excelled at initiating from the wing, sweeping across the opposing defense and then firing while on the move. His poise and high IQ produced patient dodges by Aquino where he waited for a teammate to come open and then delivered a dime. Aquino also flashed the ability to hustle back and play SSDM at a respectable level.