On Thursday,9/27 the Varsity Girls and Boys Soccer teams took on their their opposing sides from Columbia Prep in a pair of very competitive games.
What Was The Result of the Boys Game?
Playing without injured seniors, captain Ray Weinmann and starting right back Alain Mathieu, the Portledge side was at a huge disadvantage against a rather polished team from Columbia Prep. The Panthers played a strong defensive game, but were unable to mount much of an offense without Weinmann's customary orchestration. The baby blue Lions tallied once in each half and went on to a 2-0 victory over Portledge. Credit should go to senior Corey Axelowitz, who did a nice job filling in on the right flank, and to freshman Steven Dourmashkin. The youngster was called up from the reserve team to see his first Varsity action. The Panthers resume league play this Saturday at Founders Day when they put their unbeaten league mark on the line against the dark blue of LWA. "Football" aficionado, and JV Boys Soccer Coach Marcelo Sandoval commented that, " this Saturday will tell us a great deal about the potential of this year's Varsity side. I'm sure Coach Coleman will have the Panthers ready to go, so I say ROAR PANTHERS....ROAR!"
How Did the Varsity Girls Do?
Was it a forcefield generated from the Starship Enterprise, some sort of VOODOO spell cast by a west side shaman, or just an amazing lack of lucky bounces that led to the Varsity Girls Soccer team to take over 30 shots on the Columbia Prep and come away with no goals to show for it? After watching this excruciating game I really can't say for sure, but I'm definitely leaning towards the supernatural. All kidding aside, a tremendous amount of credit should go to the determined defensive effort of the Lady Lions and the excellent play of their goalkeeper, who made more than a few memorable saves.
The Lady Panthers will have to shake off this disappointing 0-0 tie and the loss of two potential points in the PSAA standings because this Saturday brings the defending PSAA Champions from LWA to Portledge for what should be one incredible game. Portledge supporters are encouraged to come out and cheer their hearts out as this critical test unfolds. GO GIRLS GO-BECAUSE WE BELIEVE IN YOU!
Friday, September 28, 2007
7/8 Boys Soccer Remains Unbeaten
This was an excellent week for the 7/8 Boys Soccer team. They played Green Vale on Tuesday and Holy Child on Thursday, with both results being quite impressive.
What Happened in These 7/8 Boys Games?
When then 7/8 boys first saw their competition this Tuesday at GreenVale they were a bit intimidated. The blue and gold team was full of 9th grade boys, many of whom were of the very large variety. After a quick start by GV, the Portledge boys began to settle down and play some really excellent soccer. 8th grader Eric Diamataris was a rock on the back line where he was supported by fine play from wing backs "TJ" Roberts and Nick Lobley. During the last few minutes of the first half Portledge even carried the play, consistently threatening the Green Vale net. As the first stanza ended, however, the Young Panthers found themselves trailing by a score of 1-0. The powerful GV side went for the kill early in the second half but several outstanding saves from emerging team leader Ian Estevez kept the blue and gold at bay. Then, as time was winding down, 7th grader Danny Trentini stole the ball in the Green Vale end of the field. He was able to get off a cross that found center midfielder Justin Starrantino just above the eighteen. Starrantino avoided a defender's challenge and deposited a left footed rocket in the back of the GV net. The defense held throughout the rest of the game and the Portledge boys came out with a tie that felt like a win. Outside halfs Michael Bruschi and Brendan McGovern were both outstanding in this very hard fought match.
On Thursday the 7/8 boys travelled to Holy Child for their second road game of the week. After a back and forth first half during which both sides subbed liberally, the score stood a 0-0. The second half would be a different story though as the Panther offense, sparked by 7th grader Joe Sartori (2 goals), erupted for four talleys. 7th grader Myles Keyes played well b/w the pipes and Portledge went on to win 4-2. This puts the Young Panther's record at 2 wins, o losses and 2 ties. Keep up the fine team play boys,and good luck in your coming matches.
What Happened in These 7/8 Boys Games?
When then 7/8 boys first saw their competition this Tuesday at GreenVale they were a bit intimidated. The blue and gold team was full of 9th grade boys, many of whom were of the very large variety. After a quick start by GV, the Portledge boys began to settle down and play some really excellent soccer. 8th grader Eric Diamataris was a rock on the back line where he was supported by fine play from wing backs "TJ" Roberts and Nick Lobley. During the last few minutes of the first half Portledge even carried the play, consistently threatening the Green Vale net. As the first stanza ended, however, the Young Panthers found themselves trailing by a score of 1-0. The powerful GV side went for the kill early in the second half but several outstanding saves from emerging team leader Ian Estevez kept the blue and gold at bay. Then, as time was winding down, 7th grader Danny Trentini stole the ball in the Green Vale end of the field. He was able to get off a cross that found center midfielder Justin Starrantino just above the eighteen. Starrantino avoided a defender's challenge and deposited a left footed rocket in the back of the GV net. The defense held throughout the rest of the game and the Portledge boys came out with a tie that felt like a win. Outside halfs Michael Bruschi and Brendan McGovern were both outstanding in this very hard fought match.
On Thursday the 7/8 boys travelled to Holy Child for their second road game of the week. After a back and forth first half during which both sides subbed liberally, the score stood a 0-0. The second half would be a different story though as the Panther offense, sparked by 7th grader Joe Sartori (2 goals), erupted for four talleys. 7th grader Myles Keyes played well b/w the pipes and Portledge went on to win 4-2. This puts the Young Panther's record at 2 wins, o losses and 2 ties. Keep up the fine team play boys,and good luck in your coming matches.
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Athlete of the Week
Congrats to Liz Lanza of the Varsity Girls Soccer team, our Upper School athlete of the week for her efforts to tie the game v. LuHi.
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!
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!
Sunday, September 23, 2007
A Week of Major Rivalry Games
This coming week should be a very exciting one on the soccer pitches at Portledge. I think it should definitely be dubbed rivalry week. Things get going on Tuesday when all the Middle School teams take on Green Vale. The 7/8 girls and boys games will be at GV, while the 5/6 teams will tangle with the blue and gold right here at Portledge. That same afternoon the Portledge Varsity sides will face the LuHi Varsity Girls and Boys. The girls game will be at LuHi and the boys game will be at Portledge. On Thursday the Carolina Blue of Columbia Prep will invade Locust Valley for Varsity boys and girls games, as the 7/8 boys and girls teams venture to Holy Child. Finally, this Saturday, at Founders Day, the Varsity sides will kick-off against the LWA girls and boys. Everyone is invited to come on out and see some great soccer!
7/8 Soccer Teams Open Interscholastic Play
This past week the 7/8 girls and boys soccer teams opened up their interscholastic schedules. The girls team played LuHi and Waldorf, while the boys faced LuHi and Solomon Schechter.
What Can You Tell Us About the 7/8 Girls Team?
The 7/8 Girls Soccer Team has a some rebuilding to do. Last year's team was dominated by 8th graders, most of whom are now on the JV Girls Soccer team or playing on the Varsity side. So the team has many players without much experience at this level. Head Coach Miss Nugent has coached this level for 4 years now, and I don't think it will take her long to get her charges into shape and playing winning "football". Their are some nice pieces in place. 7th graders Ceci Mulry and Eve Shapiro share time in the goal and both are strong players, as is midfielder Arielle Parris. 8th graders Martine Krown and Lisa Dourmashkin are key defenders in a group that is improving with every practice.
After taking it on the chin 7-0 in their first game against LuHi, the girls bounced back the very next day and played a tough Waldorf team to a 1-1 draw. It will be interesting to watch this team and see how it develops as the season goes on.
How Does the 7/8 Boys Team Look?
7/8 boys soccer at Portledge has 21 wins and only 3 losses over the last two years, so this year's squad has quite a legacy to follow. This is a well rounded team with some strong holdovers from last year's exciting side. 8th graders Eric Diamataris, "TJ" Roberts and Doug Powers are the heart of the defense, while 8th graders Justin Starrantino, Michael Bruschi and Brendan McGovern control the midfield. Up front there are many attacking options , but opposing defenses better focus on new 8th grader Matt Crockett. This young man has some moves and a nose for the net. He will be supported in the attack by 8th graders Nick Lobley and Joey Brambil and 7th graders Joe Sartori and Ted Hagerty. The team has 28 total players, so many others will be rotating in and out of the line-up.
In the team's first game the young Panthers went up 2-0 before the LuHi boys came charging back to take a 3-2 lead early in the the 2nd half. Matt Crockett then found the net with a long blast from the right side and the Portledge side was once again full of enthusiasm. As the game was winding down Joe Sartori scored for the second time and team leader Justin Starrantino added one for insurance. Coach Schwab noted in his game report that 7th grade goaltender Ian Estevez made several key saves to keep the Panthers close before the eventual 2nd half offensive explosion.
The second contest of the year saw the 7/8 boys take on a determined side from Solomon Schechter. SSDS has been a tough opponent over the last few years and right from the beginning the Panthers knew they were in a tough match. Portledge was trailing 2-0 as time was winding down when a well developed attack culminated with Starrantino being taken down in the box. The 8th grader calmly converted the penalty kick and Portledge trailed by only one. It looked as if that would be the final, but in the closing minute Starrantino intercepted a throw by the SSDS goalie and slotted a perfect shot just inside the right post. Credit should go to the SSDS side for playing a great game, particularly their sweeper #3, and to the Portledge boys for not giving up and playing right to the end. A 2-2 draw was a fair result in this excellent game.
What Can You Tell Us About the 7/8 Girls Team?
The 7/8 Girls Soccer Team has a some rebuilding to do. Last year's team was dominated by 8th graders, most of whom are now on the JV Girls Soccer team or playing on the Varsity side. So the team has many players without much experience at this level. Head Coach Miss Nugent has coached this level for 4 years now, and I don't think it will take her long to get her charges into shape and playing winning "football". Their are some nice pieces in place. 7th graders Ceci Mulry and Eve Shapiro share time in the goal and both are strong players, as is midfielder Arielle Parris. 8th graders Martine Krown and Lisa Dourmashkin are key defenders in a group that is improving with every practice.
After taking it on the chin 7-0 in their first game against LuHi, the girls bounced back the very next day and played a tough Waldorf team to a 1-1 draw. It will be interesting to watch this team and see how it develops as the season goes on.
How Does the 7/8 Boys Team Look?
7/8 boys soccer at Portledge has 21 wins and only 3 losses over the last two years, so this year's squad has quite a legacy to follow. This is a well rounded team with some strong holdovers from last year's exciting side. 8th graders Eric Diamataris, "TJ" Roberts and Doug Powers are the heart of the defense, while 8th graders Justin Starrantino, Michael Bruschi and Brendan McGovern control the midfield. Up front there are many attacking options , but opposing defenses better focus on new 8th grader Matt Crockett. This young man has some moves and a nose for the net. He will be supported in the attack by 8th graders Nick Lobley and Joey Brambil and 7th graders Joe Sartori and Ted Hagerty. The team has 28 total players, so many others will be rotating in and out of the line-up.
In the team's first game the young Panthers went up 2-0 before the LuHi boys came charging back to take a 3-2 lead early in the the 2nd half. Matt Crockett then found the net with a long blast from the right side and the Portledge side was once again full of enthusiasm. As the game was winding down Joe Sartori scored for the second time and team leader Justin Starrantino added one for insurance. Coach Schwab noted in his game report that 7th grade goaltender Ian Estevez made several key saves to keep the Panthers close before the eventual 2nd half offensive explosion.
The second contest of the year saw the 7/8 boys take on a determined side from Solomon Schechter. SSDS has been a tough opponent over the last few years and right from the beginning the Panthers knew they were in a tough match. Portledge was trailing 2-0 as time was winding down when a well developed attack culminated with Starrantino being taken down in the box. The 8th grader calmly converted the penalty kick and Portledge trailed by only one. It looked as if that would be the final, but in the closing minute Starrantino intercepted a throw by the SSDS goalie and slotted a perfect shot just inside the right post. Credit should go to the SSDS side for playing a great game, particularly their sweeper #3, and to the Portledge boys for not giving up and playing right to the end. A 2-2 draw was a fair result in this excellent game.
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