I finally got to see Lynbrook play -- they probably haven't looked better all season than they did in a fast-paced 12-10 win over Baldwin on Tuesday. Joe Vitale had five goals including the game winner with just under six minutes to go.
I was very impressed with Vitale, and the play of both goalies. Mike DeNapoli is a tough kid. The kid was being tended to by the Lynbrook trainer and looked like a boxer. He had a gash about an inch long on his forehead that he got by reaching for the ball and taking a hard hit. He said his helmet pinched his skin. Make no sense? Hey, maybe he was a bit woozy. But he looked fine.
As for Baldwin junior Dominique Alexander -- look out for him next year. He is a raw talent with some nice natural ability to make plays with the ball in his stick. When he learns how to shoot more effectively he'll be good. Very good. He had two nice goals and both in the first half and a couple of assists. Oh, and and he's lightning fast. Rich Garguilo must be excited about his young guys.
Baldwin was without one of its starting poles, senior captain Eugene Clifford. He broke his collarbone in the surprising loss to Port Washington (huge win for those guys Tuesday: eight unanswered goals to beat Calhoun 13-12!). I wonder how much not having him affected the Bruins, but it was still a great game to watch.
For an 11 a.m. start, I can tell you guys that I haven't been up that early in a long time. But it was worth it. The sun, the kids, the fans -- it was perfect. Thanks to everyone who said hello and for the kind words about our game stories, Insiders and our blogs. We do this stuff you, the readers *cues the "Full House" music*
If anyone is going to watch Lynbrook play Oceanside Friday, shoot me an e-mail!