Amanda Murolo fights through the defense again. This past Sunday the girls took to the pitch at St. Paul's and put together a second good match to push their record to 2-0-0. Forcing the play against a tough Hewlett Blue Chips team, the Fireballs controlled the game early with their speed and ball movement. With control of the match, the girls got into scoring position several times early and finally got on the board about 15 minutes into the game. The goal was scored when stopper Amanda Murolo stepped up on a clearing attempt and one timed a shot from 30 yards out. With the ball bouncing off the Hewlett keeper, Megan Zarriello was in perfect position to crash the net and bury the rebound for a 1-0 lead. The remainder of the first half saw the Fireballs hit the crossbar and then a post, as well as firing wide on several great runs into the box. The first half ended with the Fireballs up 1-0 with goalie Monique Roberge facing a couple of challenges that she quickly grabbed and turned back up field.

The second half started quickly with Hewlett pressuring the Fireball defense with their physical play. Only 10 minutes into the half the Blue Chips got a break on a run down the sideline and were able to push one past Monique for the tying goal. Not getting down, the Fireballs took the ball up the field on their very next possession. Working the ball into the box with some fine passing and individual skills the entire midfield and both forwards touched the ball before Meaghan Walsh hit the back of the net for what would be the game winning goal. Moving the ball into position with terrific touches were Courtney Chmil (even with a badly bruised toe), Amanda Murolo, Christina Cesarini, Megan Zarriello and Victoria Aldrich.

All smiles after Meaghan Walsh buries the game winner. The next 20 minutes were filled with some quality chances for both teams. The best Fireball chance of the half came on a direct kick from Christine Malhame from about 25 yards that just skimmed off the cross bar and went over the goal. Hewlett's best chance came when they drew Monique out to the corner and lofted a shot that looked like a sure goal. But Kim Verderber came out of nowhere to head the ball off the line and out of harms way. For the remainder of the half on the defensive side of the ball, Paige Vincent, Shannon McWilliams, Kim Verderber and Michelle Rotondo bent but would not break and they teamed with Monique to hold off the challenges of Hewlett for the victory. The girls will come back after this weeks break to go out to Commack and take on the Spirit looking to keep their winning record intact. And then it's on to Windsor, Ct. for the annual Columbus Day tournament.

Keeper Monique Roberge drives the goal kick upfield

Megan Zarriello has an eye on the goal. Christine Malhame wins the battle for control.