Megan Zarriello with support from Alexa Kentfield and Courtney Chmil. On another rainy Saturday, the Fireballs traveled to Commack to take on the Starz in the third round of the State Cup. Playing in a very tight match the Fireballs suffered a 1-0 loss as Commack scored off a lucky (or unlucky if you're a Fireball fan) play. The two teams had played a fairly even first half until the Starz got a turnover in the midfield and quickly jumped into the offense with the Fireball defense moving forward. Looking more like their midfielder was putting the ball over the top for an oncoming forward, the ball found the top corner of the goal for a 1-0 lead for Commack.

The second half featured the Fireballs pushing forward, trying to break through, but continually being turned aside by a strong Commack defense. Because they were putting the extra players forward the Fireball defense was very dependent on solid goal keeping. And boy did Erin Mullins turn in an excellent performance. Jumping out at least 5 times to take the ball away from oncoming Commack forwards. Erin did it with her body, her feet, her hands - anything she could to get on top of the ball and keep GC in the game. One of the best chances of the half came on a great run down the left sideline by Meghan Walsh who sent a strong left footed cross into the box but the Commack defense was able to clear the ball. Another chance that was turned aside was on a terrific free kick off the foot of Christine Malhame. The ball was grabbed from the upper corner by the Starz keeper. The half continued to go back and forth at a very fast pace with neither team connecting on their scoring chances. And the game ended with Commack on top, 1-0.

Chrisitne Malhame fighting for control. Well, it's now on to concentrating on the regular season, where the girls have a win and a tie in their two league matches. Good luck this week out at South Huntington against the Lightning (hopefully the team and not the weather!).

Paige Vincent coming out of the back with the ball. Christina Cesarini sprinting for the loose ball. Courtney Chmil drops the ball back to Michelle Rotondo.