Don't think Pinewood has ever "owned" BE though this year they are particularly talented. Defense is hallmark of both teams this year and you got the sense from the opening minute it would come down to the last 10 minutes or PK's.
Last night's match, luck turned against Pinewood as they lost to BE in PK's (1-0). PP had a 2 man offside "goal" in first period but were outshot 6-3. Think first half was edge to BE. 2nd half, PP came out with a vengence and peppered Joey Calandra now in the goal. Joey played his usual agreesive style and had some big saves particularly with some awesome sideline throw ins by #5. Joey was beat twice on sideline breakaways after defensive breakdowns on BE side but PP missed two golden opportunities once hitting far side post and once on the crossbar. Fairly even in 2 OT's but Calandra huge in PK's blocking 2 and almost having a third kick save. PP also had a miss on goal and one PK hit crossbar, bounced out but was called good by Ref. BE seniors came through on PK's (J.Ricciardone, Crosbee, Sellers, Anderson) burying in low and high corners. BE had two missed goals but no saves from GK Spearman. Fun to watch 3 of the best goal keeps in State in any division (Phil Ricciardone (BE), Joey Calandra (BE), and Spearman from PP) especially w/ punts. Calandra and Spearman were teammates on Coach Ed Khoury's State Champions U-18 Bridge team last fall as were Little, Sellers, Crosbee, Anderson, and Blaze Creech and Ben Allen from PP
As for the small pitch, PP dangerous taking advantage of throw ins but proved they could play on BE's large pitch as well earlier this year.
Pinewood has tough (toughest?)bracket in Palmetto Cup but don't count them out against NW, Lexington or Christian Brothers. Both of these small schools have proven they can play with anyone in the State.
2 great matches by two quality teams this year each winning on the opponent's pitch.
