PATRIOTS LOOK “CLASSIC”

MELVILLE 9 W. ISLIP 4

The two-time defending NYS Champion Ward Melville Patriots ( 10-2, 9-1 ) defeated the West Islip Lions, 9-4, in a hard fought “Coca-Cola Classic” in front of 1,700 supportive fans. The M & M boys (Monfett & Miaritis), each had “Hat-Tricks” to ensure this important Div. I victory for the Patriots.

The fans came out in large numbers to enjoy an exciting night game made even more interesting with Sachem defeating Northport 13-12 in overtime earlier in the day. This meant that Melville could regain its first place ranking in Suffolk County Div. I league play with a win over the determined Lions squad.

Melville’s defense was key to the victory, keeping the talented Lion attack off balance all night. The defensive unit of Senior Ryan Kelaher, Senior Jay Rapisarda and Junior Doug Seale, protected Senior Goalkeeper Nick Gentilesco ( 7 saves) from facing just a handful of shots. The defensive pressure caused the Lions many uncharacteristic turnovers, which Melville quickly returned to the attack and capitalized for goals.

Melville’s scoring was lead by Seniors Matt Monfett (3 goals, 1 assist) and Nick Miaritis (3 goals). Junior Jon Matisui (1 goal, 1 assist), along with Sophomores Mike Ward (1 goal, 1 assist) and Dave Schwartzberg each scored once to keep the Lions from threatening the Patriot lead.

West Islip scoring came from a solid effort by Senior Attackman Brian Griffin (2 goals,1 assist), along with Junior Zack Winkler and Senior Sal Galasso who each had one goal. The Melville families wish to compliment the determined play of Junior Midfielder Chip Schmidt, who took a severe blow late in the game… Chip did leave the field on his own and we hope he continues his skilled play without delay.

The box scores for the game were 4-1 first, 5-2 half, 7-2 third and 9-4 final.

The Ward Melville Dancers who put on an electrifying show treated the evening’s crowd to a great half-time performance.

The Patriots will face-off on Mon., May 5, at 4pm, away at Walt Whitman.

GO PATRIOTS!

Unofficial Scoring Totals:

Goals: WM- Monfett ( 3 ), Miaritis ( 3 ), Matsui, Ward, Schwartzberg…

WI- Griffin ( 2 ), Winkler, Galasso

Assists: WM- Monfett, Matsui, Ward…West Islip- Flandina ( 2 ), Vecchione, Griffin

Saves: WM- Gentilesco ( 7 )…WI- Luquer ( 7 )

Faceoffs: WM- 7 of 17; Middleton ( 5/9 ), Ferraro ( 2/8 )…

WI- 10 of 17; Schmidt ( 5/8 ), Bishko ( 5/9 )