Varsity Soccer Teams Win & Tie v. LuHi

The VGS and VBS teams took on their opposing sides from LuHi on Tuesday, 9/25 in a pair of critical league games. Both matches were fiercely competitive and the results are certainly favorable for Portledge soccer.

What Happened in the Varsity Girls Game?
There is no question that all the tight games played b/w the Portledge and LuHi girls teams over the last few years has created a spirited rivalry among these sides. Some could even say that the opponents don't like each other too much. Whatever the case may be, Tuesday's game was yet another example of hard fought and skillful soccer from both teams.
Portledge pushed the pace of play in the early going, only to see LuHi awarded a penalty kick when their first attack culminated in a foul in the box. Portledge goalie Chelsea Estevez stood tall though, and turned back the effort of the LuHi striker. This energized the Lady Panthers, and a few minutes later freshman Ashley Wade challenged the LuHi keeper for a loose ball and created a scramble in front of the opposing goal. Sophomore Chelsea Caracciolo found her way to the ball and deposited it firmly in the net. Later in the first half, a similar scramble in front of the Portledge net allowed LuHi to tie the score at one. As time was winding down in the first stanza one of the Crusader midfielders sent a perfect volley from outside the box over the head of Estevez and into the Portledge net. Down 2-1 at half Coach Coope attempted to rally the girls
to raise the level of their intensity in order to meet the LuHi challenge.
The second half was hotly contested with several hard challenges and many fouls being called on both sides. Portledge generally controlled the play as the ball spent much more time down in the Crusader side of the field. As time was running down Caracciolo sent a long cross into the box. After some obvious contact b/w Alex Siwiec and a LuHi defender went uncalled in either direction, senior captain Liz Lanza got control of the "rock" and slotted it past the LuHi keeper, all the while fighting off a tough challenge from another Crusader defender. Portledge pushed for the game winner, but it was not to be, as this extremely competitive game ended in a 2-2 draw. The result is a positive one for Portledge though,as they remain unbeaten in PSAA league play. Special recognition should go to the Portledge keeper, sophomore Chelsea Estevez. She played a brilliant game turning away several excellent chances by the opponents. Congratulations Girls and KEEP IT GOING!

What About the Guys Game?
The intensity of the VBS game v. LuHi certainly rivaled that of the girl's game. Even though the Portledge side came out on top, the boys have a ways to go in terms of controlling their emotions, if they want to become league champs and advance to the NYSAISAA Tournament.
An early goal from yet another Trevor Wolfson throw in headed in by young Chris McCloskey put Portledge on top in this very physical contest. Both sides jostled each other consistently and it was the Portledge side that allowed the rough play to distract them a bit. This distraction came in the form of a generally disjointed attack that was prone to the quick counter. Keeper Austin Prey was forced to make 16 saves overall, as the Crusaders threatened his net on several occasions. The most tense moment of the game occurred when Prey was yellow carded for protest following a call against him in the box. Trevor Wolfson had to go into the net to face the LuHi penalty as the Portledge bench and fans collectively held their breath. No problems though as the Crusader attempt went sailing over the crossbar. The Panthers kept the pressure on the LuHi side, thus preventing them from creating any organized opportunities. The game ended 1-0 with some feelings of "see you next time" hanging in the air.
This type of attitude is something the evolving Portledge side must stay away from. They are playing some solid team soccer and the success of the group is what is most important. I realize that I have been a bit more editorial in this post, however, sometimes things are apparent and must be commented on. These hard fought games with LuHi have caused me to reflect about the nature of competition, and come to the conclusion that competing without composure will always lead to a loss in the bigger picture of things. Good luck in your future games Portledge soccer players, but remember that victory without sportsmanship can be quite hollow. This is something we all can learn from!