Significant win for Oceanside

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After dropping its first four games, the Oceanside boys’ lacrosse team was in need of a spark. Its April 4 matchup against conference rival Hicksville, not only had great meaning in the standings, but great meaning for the confidence of a team still hoping to accomplish big things this season. 

The Sailors passed their first true test of the season with flying colors, defeating the Comets, 8-6. Junior midfielder Derek Cruz led the way with a four-point performance, and freshman goalie Casey Carlson turned away 10 shots.

“It’s always a big win, any year you can get it against them,” Oceanside head coach Gillis said. “It definitely is this year, considering where we were at going into that game. It was probably one of the cleaner games we’ve played all season. We’re definitely moving forward.”

Despite the Sailors’ slow beginning, expectations remain high for the group. 

“We’ve got a bunch of returning guys, and the team is still very young,” Gillis said. “We’ve got a little bit of everything, and we were very excited going into the season. It hasn’t been the start that we expected, but we’re definitely learning and pushing forward.”

Generating offense was a problem for the club in its opening few games. But, since adding junior Austin Morelli up front with senior Riley Graham and sophomore Luke Hickam, the Oceanside attack unit has been much improved. 

“Austin’s definitely added energy to the unit,” Gillis said. “He’s got wiggle and has got wheels. His play has allowed us to start engaging with Riley and Luke a little bit more.”

In the midfield, the Sailors are led by senior Jack Egan, who stands out with his athleticism and desire to win. “He’s the biggest, fastest, strongest kid out there for both teams every game,” Gillis said. “He’s the biggest competitor we have.”

Jim Montgomery has also proven to be an invaluable senior in the midfield. “He’s the head of our defensive midfield,” Gillis said. “He’s got good size, and is one of our best leaders on and off the field.”

Providing even more midfield depth is Cruz and sophomore Joe Kiesche. Both have provided key goals for the team this spring. At the long stick midfield spot, juniors Tyler Ocasio and Charlie Ward have given the club quality minutes.

Starting on defense has been seniors Jake Denaro and Dan Marshall, and junior Joe Dougherty. “They are three totally different players,” Gillis said. “Jake does a great job of getting the ball up and moving. Joe is really tough and physical. Dan is our defensive leader, and is great at just playing old school defense.”

In the cage, Carlson hopes to continue succeeding at the varsity level, after making strong contributions in a brief stint with the team last year. 

“He helped us get a big league win against Baldwin last year. He’s getting used to the pressure of being a varsity goalie, and has started to do some nice things. We’re looking for him to really step up and take control in the cage.”