Paul Leonetti watched ball after ball find its way into the midfield from the Midwood end of the field. Then the Hornets coach would see them quickly turned back around by a talented Brooklyn Tech unit, which dominated play during the teams’ season opener.
Midwood had a very limited number of scoring chances thanks to Tech’s control of the midfield in a 6-1 loss in PSAL Brooklyn A-III girls soccer at Charles B. Wang Field on Tuesday.
There was hope for the Hornets, who finished 6-4-2 last season, even after a lopsided defeated to the defending division champions. Three of the team’s top players, Jessica Wishart, Annmaria Ingravallo and Thomas Jefferson transfer Serene Drakes, all midfielders, did not play because they had not participated in the mandatory eight practices because of vacations. Wishart scored six goals and dished out five assists last season.
“That was the weakest thing, not being able to control [the ball] and make the transition [to offense]” Leonetti, a first-year coach, said. “I think my midfield is going to be tougher and a lot tighter when all three are able to get there.”
Considering the tremendous amount of pressure put on the Midwood defense, it held up fairly well also having to try to contain one of the most technically sound and talented players in the city in junior Niri Halperin, who had two goals and an assist. Sophomore sweeper Annabel Calhoun showed an ability to cover the entire field and make a tackle even on plays that looked like sure goals.
“She knows how to clear the box,” Leonetti said. “Her potential for growth in my eyes is unlimited.”
Freshman striker Isabella Schaefer scored Midwood’s lone goal on a penalty kick midway through the second half to make the score 5-1. She showed good ball-handling skills and some speed with the ball at her feet.
“She needs a little development,” the coach said. “If she does, she is going to be something to watch.”
So could the Hornets once they get their full complement of players back. They understand that the road to division supremacy will once again go through Brooklyn Tech and are already thinking about their next match up.
“Last year they were the team to beat,” Calhoun said. “This year I am looking forward to playing them again with our full team and try to take them.
