Patriettes Beat CSH Thunder

Julia Biscardi puts a stop to the offensive drive This past Saturday was a beautiful afternoon for the U 12 Patriettes to hold their home opener. The Patriettes took on the Cold Spring Harbor Thunder in their first match ever at Community Park Field. The Patriettes came into the game tied for 2nd place in their division and the Thunder were only one point behind in the standings. A strong team starts with its defense which can help set the tone for any match. This week the Patriettes defense started the game with its usual hustle and determination not to let the opponents any chances on goal. Julia Biscardi, Christie Pflume and Jillian Curtin lead the charge from the back so the Patriettes could move upon the Thunders goal. With the defense feeding the ball up the midfielders, Alexis Leighton received a pass and sent a ball to Caitlin Kaczynski on the right wing. Caitlin battled with the Thunder defense along the side line and to the corner. Her persistence paid off with a solid cross thru the box which was volleyed by Laurel Nothel into the net for a 1-0 lead. Even with a lead and the always reliable Isabel Balady playing her usual strong game in goal the Patriettes kept putting on the pressure. The constant pressure lead to the Patriettes getting their second goal on a swift strong kick by Jillian Gregory from just inside the 18. The half ended with the home team leading 2-0. The Patriettes knew that they had played a very strong half, but needed to be sure that they continued their hard work on the 2nd half. The 2nd half had the CSH Thunder coming out quickly looking to challenge the Patriettes lead. Controlling the midfield and working hard to keep pressure off the defense was Claudia Caracciolo, Maddy Stone, and Margot McTiernan. Not wanting to let up on offense the center forwards of Annie Kane and Becky Reifler kept making strong passes to teammates Erin Rode and Mary Kate Kenny who made numerous runs towards the goal from their wing positions keeping the Thunder on their heals. With less than 10 minutes left in the game the Thunder made a number of aggressive rushes towards the Patriettes net. These runs resulted in a goal and the match became a one goal contest. The last 5 minutes the Patriettes repelled the Thunder advances with smart defense, solid goaltending, and smart midfield work. When the referee signaled the match over the Patriettes were victorious by 2-1. With the win the Patriettes moved into a tie for first place. Congratulations Team and good luck this week.

Jill Gregory breaks out of the pack

Margot McTiernan crosses to center