The Mineola Chiefs 11-year-olds had a come from behind win at home at Tully Park on Sunday, rallying from 16-6 at halftime, to beat the Bellmore Braves 25-16.The Chiefs’ offense led by quarterback Michael O’Connell (3 TD’s, 1 XP) and the strong running of runningbacks Lance Costa (1 TD) and Matt Sluka moved the ball forward against the Braves.
The Chiefs offensive line made solid sound blocking led by Michael LaGinestra, Kevin Parente, Patrick McTiernan, Anthony Giunta, Brandon Coward and tight-ends Spenser Warantz and Philip Arnold.
The Mineola defense made halftime adjustments and went back to their championship 6-2 defense to shutout Bellmore in the second half. The Chiefs came alive and were aggressive, making tackles all over the field. The defensive line of Sante Nicolia, Dylan Vincenti, Vincent Pomara, Joshua Jacob, Ryan Calderone, Naz Jackson, Damien Patterson and Ocian Villa kept the pressure on Bellmore’s offense throughout the game.
Cornerbacks and safeties played as they defended the house and were lead by O’Connell, Andrew Casoria, Jack Duff, Matt Grimm and Thomas Albig. The linebackers of Costa and Sluka (Int.) attacked the ball and finished off the Braves. All the boys on the team played and participated in the victory.
Scoring is summarized below:
Lance Costa 7 yard Touchdown Run (xpoint kick failed)
Michael O’Connell 4 yard Touchdown Run (Michael O’Connell xpoint run)
Michael O’Connell 44 yard Touchdown Run (xpoint kick failed)
Michael O’Connell 25 yard Touchdown Pass from Matt Sluka (xpoint kick failed)
