Xtreme Win Division At Rough Riders

Since early December, the Garden City Xtreme has participated in a 10 game winter soccer league at the Rough Riders complex in Uniondale. The team was looking to keep their skills and conditioning sharp, as well as enjoying the indoor game. The Xtreme worked furiously at defending their goal throughout the season. Their team defense was the difference, as they won 9 out of 10 matches and came in first place in the division. Allowing only 11 goals in ten indoor games is a fabulous accomplishment.

As the season began, it was immediately apparent to some of the players that the indoor game is quite different than the outdoor game. The transition from going on the offensive and having to defend, must be immediate. With the small playing field, you only have seconds to pressure the ball and mark the attackers. At the midway point in the season, it became obvious that it was going to be a three way race to win the division. The Hicksville United and Lynbrook Lady Dragons entered strong teams into the league. Lynbrook was extremely physical and Hicksville had a few very talented forwards. The Xtreme and the Lady Dragons played twice early in the season, each team winning once. Both matches were thrilling to watch. With the Xtreme and Lady Dragons each having a loss, the United stood along in first place.

On January 20, the Xtreme had an opportunity to knock the United out as the leader of the division when they went head to head. The Xtreme rose to the occasion, playing superbly and defeated United 3-1. The sharp shooting Hicksville team was continuously shut down by the Xtreme defense. Sam Derby played in the goal for the whole 50 minute match. Sam, (voted best keeper in the league) frustrated the Hicksville team throughout the match with awesome saves. The backs, Jenna Codignotto, Colette Seel, Katie Roscoe, Deanna DiPierro, Alison Holfester and Cara Adams, limited the amount of quality shots by the United with aggression and alertness. Up front, Lauren and Sam Miesemer showed their great chemistry, pressuring the United defense and keeper throughout the match. Isabel McKeown and Joanna Skolovic didn't give the United a break either, Isabel with her fabulous foot work and Joanna with her speed. The three goals these forwards orchestrated were enough to win the match. With four matches remaining, the Xtreme were in the driver's seat, controlling their destiny. The team continued their fine play and won the remaining games.

Although the girls really enjoyed the indoor game and getting to see their teammates every week, the players can't wait to get outdoors and start their spring season.