Fireballs Disarm Sharpshooters

Shannon McWilliams supported by Christina Cesarini and Erin Dean

The Fireballs traveled to South Merrick to take on the Sharpshooters in an U-15 game last Sunday and came away with a hard fought 2-0 victory. Getting two first half goals, the girls played smart, skilled soccer. In the match the Fireballs had to maintain their composure against a very physical and chippy South Merrick team that received at least 5 yellow cards and numerous warnings for their blatant fouls; and our girls have the bruises to show, but they also have the victory on the score sheet!

The first goal was scored by Amanda Murolo on a great effort in front of the goal after Christina Cesarini headed the ball to her behind the defense. On the second goal, Courtney Chmil battled her way down the right sideline and side stepped two defenders to get in the box for a clear shot. And she didn't miss, putting the ball past the keeper for the two goal lead.

Throughout the match, GC controlled played and had numerous opportunities to build on their lead but were thwarted by a good S. Merrick keeper. In the first half, Meaghan Walsh just missed the near post, Cez and Monique Roberge had good shots on goal and Christine Malhame put numerous free kicks into the area or on goal only to be grabbed by the keeper. Firing at the net in the second half with good scoring chances were Erin Dean, Victoria Aldrich and Daniella Sampram.

Courtney Chmil ready to move around a defender

On the defensive side of the ball, the Fireballs were working against a team that tried to beat them with the long ball. But it didn't work out because it was either the speed of Michelle Rotondo down the middle or Kim Verderber, Amanda Murolo and Jackie Wisniewski on the outside tracking down any balls over the top. In front of them, Shannon McWilliams was a force in the middle of the field getting to many balls out of the air and transitioning the Fireballs back to the offense. And on the few balls that got behind them, there was an active Joanna Matuza out to jump on any ball that came into the box to gain the shutout win.

Along with their week one win, the girls now have a 2-0-0 record and look forward to taking on the undefeated Smithtown Patriots on September 30. And although the girls have a bye week from Fireball soccer, they will not be far from a soccer ball as most are enjoying their first year of high school ball the other 6 days of the week!

Monique Roberge through the midfield

Christine Malhame with one of many free kicks Amanda Murolo clears out of trouble. Joanna Matuza scoops up the loose ball