Lauren Miesemer goes 1v1. The Xtreme hosted the HBC Wildcats at St. Paul's in the first round of the Waldbaums Cup on March 15 th. This event is an annual spring tournament run by LIJSL and sponsored by Waldbaums. It was a typical chilly and windy March morning. Even with the conditions, the Xtreme players were exited about playing outside for the first time in months.

When the match started, the Xtreme had the majority of possession. Midfielders Alison Holfester, Katie Roscoe and Colette Seel were first to the ball, keeping the play in the HBC defensive area. The midfielders also connected with their forwards, creating early pressure on the Wildcats, back line. The HBC keeper made a few saves in the first few minutes of play, Joanna Sokolovic and Lauren Miesemer each sending well-struck shots in the goal.

Six minutes into the match after a set piece, the Xtreme scored the first goal of the match. A ball sent into the 18 yard box popped out to Sam Miesemer who had smartly moved into a supporting position. Sam then played the ball right back in on goal. After a quick fight of possession, Lauren won the ball and pushed it past the keeper for a goal. The Xtreme were excited that their hard work resulted in a quick goal. Unfortunately, the Wildcats answered with a goal of their own within two minutes.

Isabel McKeown dribbles up the field. For the next 22 minutes of the match, each team created some scoring opportunities. Deanna DiPierro set her team up with some great scoring chances with her lofted and perfectly directed corner kicks. But, no team hit the back of the net and the match was 1-1 at half.

At the start of the second half, Cara Adams and Kelsey Whitney continued to keep their team on the offensive by winning 50/50 balls and applied instant pressure to the Wildcats if they started to get forward. Under early pressure in the half, the Wildcats were forced to concede a corner kick. Deanna again played a dangerous ball into the area, where Alison was waiting at the top of the box. Alison put a great first touch on the ball and then drove it into the top corner for the go ahead goal. Now it was up to the Xtreme defense to keep the lead. Sam Derby was in at goal for her team. Sam was quick on her feet, getting to every ball in her 18 yard box. Sam also cleared the ball out of the defensive end with accurate punts and throws. Denying the Wildcats any chance of tying the match, Isabel Mckeown, Alicia Mueller and Jenna Codignotto each came up with some critical defensive plays as HBC pushed forward in the final minutes.

Deanna DiPierro goes in for the tackle. The 2-1 victory was a great start for the team, who look forward to the league play on March 29 in East Meadow.

Joanna Sokolovic Battles for the 50/50 ball Alicia Mueller carries up the field. Katie Roscoe contains the attacher. Colette Seel takes the ball out of the air. Sam Miesemer pressures the opponent Kelsey Whitney goes past the defender.