The Fall 2008 Thunderbolts The U-14 Thunderbolts had a disappointing pair of tie games and a tough loss to open their Fall 2008 Season. The team looked great as they took First Place at the Oceanside Tournament over Labor Day weekend but just could not close the deal in three tightly contested matches. The bad luck took a positive turn as the Thunderbolts faced POB last Saturday. POB had an axe to grind as they were the second place winners at the Oceanside Tournament, edged out by Garden City.

The Thunderbolts kept their cool and played smart soccer as POB amassed six yellow cards and a red card after Jake Menges was mugged while barreling up-field with the ball. Defensively, new addition John Randazzo was nothing short of spectacular. The experienced sweeper broke up numerous scoring opportunities and advanced the ball to his mid-fielders with his tremendous boot. New teammates Danny McCabe and Zane Wasp were also positive additions to last years squad bringing speed and true grit to the team with their tenacity and high level of play.

Brain Pratt was a huge factor for the offense, both for his ability to move the ball and to put it in the net. Pratt had numerous near misses (or rather near hits) as both he and teammate Jack Metzler hit the crossbar on multiple occasions or fell victim to an exceptional POB net keeper. Kyle Walsh was at the top of his game as usual as the ultimate midfield warrior.

Incredible hustle was displayed by Mike Caravella, Mike Perotta, Pat Keogh, Kyle Ritchie, Nick Angora and Jake Menges throughout the game which was truly a team effort with minimal mistakes.

Mike Lemonda played well in goal in the first half saving many and letting just one shot in. Tyler Biscone also had some tremendous saves and posted a second half shutout against a strong wind from the south and credited his defenders for minimizing the number and quality of shots on goal. Biscone made contact with strikers that took runs at him but hung on to the ball each and every time.

This could be the turning point that the Thunderbolts needed for a good run in Windsor and for the balance of the season. The team played very well together and looked remarkably improved. While there is no "I" in team, it must be noted that one player clearly led by example and likely motivated his teammates in this 3-1 victory. That player was Brian Pratt who is truly a team leader and a motivated player.

If the Thunderbolts play the way they did against POB last week, this will be a memorable season. Go Thunderbolts!