WARD MELVILLE 18 EAST ISLIP 3
APRIL 21, 1999
This game against E.I was very different from the uninspired performance against unranked Brentwood. It was not to be a contest about winning but maybe about exercising discipline and execution by the book. Melville did not start sloppy as they have in most games this young season, but they did give E.I. something to feel good about. Defensive assignments were treated casually in the opening minutes allowing E.I to tie the game at 1-1 and again at 2-2. The coaches voiced their displeasure and the Patriots got to work.
There were excellent performances by many players today. The theme, however, is that they played as a TEAM. There was balanced scoring across both midfield lines, attack, and with a contirbution from the defense (any guesses ?). Melville dominated the face-offs winning 19/25 and their passing was the best yet. The reserves played the majority of the second half and showed that they can handle themselves well despite limited game time. They executed crisply on ball movement but got a little overanxious around the goal.
This Melville team showed that it's serious about being a force in New York lacrosse this year. Since the third period against Yorktown on Saturday they have been working with more purpose. Today was another step in developing the coordination and chemistry needed to compete at the highest levels. They know they need it and it looks like they want it.The Patriots attacked with 6 men and defended with 6 men. Sounds simple but it requires constant effort from every player and a sychronization and trust that comes with experience and intent.
E.I is not a strong opponent for a highly ranked team, but the Patriots played with respect and discipline. Good job. See you Friday.
STATISTICS
| TEAM | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | F |
| MELVILLE | 7 | 7 | 3 | 1 | 18 |
EAST ISLIP |
2 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 3 |
| PLAYER | GOALS | ASSISTS | POINTS |
| MONFETT | 4 | 6 | 10 |
| CUNNINGHAM | 4 | 2 | 6 |
| MORGAN | 2 | 4 | 6 |
| GERRY | 3 | 0 | 3 |
| W. PASSAVIA | 2 | 0 | 2 |
| C. PASSAVIA | 1 | 0 | 1 |
| MAYER | 1 | 0 | 1 |
| RABOY | 1 | 0 | 1 |
| CASINO | 0 | 1 | 1 |
| GOALIE | SHOTS | SAVES | GOALS |
| KUNKEL | 13 | 3 | 2 |
| GENTILESCO | 4 | 2 | 0 |
| WOODS | 3 | 1 | 1 |
| FACE-OFFS | CASINO11/13 | BIEL5/9 | FERRARO2/3 |
PHOTOS (By BRUCE LARRABEE)
 Junior Attackman Todd Cunningham had 4 goals and 2 assists. |
 Junior Midfielder Kurt Gerry had the "Hat Trick"..3 Goals for the day. |
 Junior defenseman Nick Belvedere. His strong stick work and checking ability has helped the Melville defense mature. |
 Senior Midfielder Willy Passavia had two goals on rocket shots. |