Mary Kate Kenny first to the ball Last weekend the Garden City U12 Patriettes took on the Stony Brook Elite in a LIJSL contest. The two teams had met in the summer in the East Meadow Covanta tournament and had a very competitive match. This week's match started with both teams working hard to try to get that always important first goal. The Patriettes forwards consisting of Mary Kate Kenny, Caitlyn Kaczynski, Erin Rode and Becky Riefler made a number of attempts at the opposition goal. Additionally, in the first half the Patriettes had a few corner kicks which were put into play by Christie Pflume. The Patriettes made strong plays on the ball but were unable to find the back of the net. True to any good soccer match there was a lot of action on both sides of the field. During the first half when the Elite made advances the Patriettes defense of Julia Biscardi, Maddie Stone, and Claudia Caracciolo with Isabel Balady in goal stopped all 1st half advances and the whistle blew with the score 0-0. The Patriettes opened up the 2nd half starting with the kick off. The Patriettes got off a couple of quick offensive strikes with Annie Kane, Alexis Leighton and Jillian Curtin at midfield. Leading the charge at forward were Laurel Nothel, Kelly McDonnell and Jillian Gregory. However, as often happens in close matches one goal can turn around the whole game. Unfortunately, halfway into the 2nd half the Elite scored their first goal of the contest. This goal was also followed up by 2 additional goals and the Patriettes were down 3-0. The girls did not give up and continued to fight and hustle until the whistle sounded. Even thought the Patriettes came out on the short end of the score they are tied for 3rd place with the Elite in a very competitive division. The Patriettes next play at the Paul R. Cody, Columbus Day tournament this weekend in Windsor CT. Good Luck Girls!

Jillian Curtin cuts ahead of her opponent

Annie Kane stay focused at midfield Alexis Leighton sends one forward