Playoffs on Long Beach's radar

Long Beach’s girls’ soccer roster hasn’t changed much from last season, but the same can’t be said of a conference schedule that calls for two games apiece against Calhoun, Kennedy, Valley Stream Central, Herricks, Syosset, Plainview and Port Washington.

“I know we’re talented,” Lady Marines coach T.J. Burke said. “We’re on the verge of breaking through and making the playoffs. It’s the best team we’ve had in five years, and also the toughest schedule.”

Long Beach is in Conference AA-II after posting a 5-7-2 record in AA-III with one of the youngest teams in the county. The majority of its key contributors return, including the entire midfield and defense.

“We’re a year older and more experienced,” Burke said. “Almost everyone plays club soccer and we’ve got good chemistry. I feel pretty good about our playoff chances, but we’re only familiar with half of the conference.”

Calhoun and Kennedy made the playoffs in 2010 out of Conference AA-III, which also included Valley Stream Central. Syosset finished third in the top conference, while Port Washington, Plainview and Herricks placed fifth through seventh in AA-II. “Three of the top eight are guaranteed a playoff spot,” Burke said of this year’s setup. “It’s something we’re striving for and it’s an important step.”

Despite the level of competition, opponents will have a tough time matching Long Beach’s talent at center-midfield with sophomore All-County selection Shannon Horgan and junior All-Class performer Emily Agudelo. They scored 12 and 10 goals, respectively, last season and make things happen all over the field.

“Shannon led us in goals and assists and also shuts people down,” Burke said. “She played some sweeper last year. It’s tough for teams to track her because we’ve got Emily right alongside. Emily’s incredible with the ball at her feet. She’s fast and smooth and wins balls in the air. I feel we’re right there with anyone in the
midfield.”