West Hempstead relies on defense

West Hempstead had made back-to-back boys’ soccer playoff appearances, and is coming off a season that saw it finish with an overall record of 7-5-1. The Rams’ 2012 campaign ended with a 3-2 loss to eventual county runner-up South Side in the opening round of the Nassau Class A playoffs.

The Rams will once again rely on their defense to be the backbone of the team. With a dearth of offensive firepower, coach Chris Van Kovics is hopeful that the defense and goalkeeping will keep his team in games, and the offensive-minded players with find the back of the net when they get opportunities.

“Our strength is in our ability to defend, and keeping the ball out of our net,” Van Kovics said. “I say it all time that we’re only going to get a handful of scoring chances each game. We have to make a few of those chances count if we’re going to be successful. I’m pretty confident that we’ll limit our opponent’s scoring opportunities.”

After starting the season with a loss to a strong Glen Cove team, and a tie with Clarke, West Hempstead got in the win column with 2-0 home victory over Seaford. Senior Woodie Cheu, and junior Robert Grogan accounted for the scoring for the Rams. Junior Bobby Smith had eight saves in posting his second consecutive shutout. Smith, who is one of the team’s captains, stopped all 10 shutouts in the 0-0 tie with Clarke.

The defense is led by stopper/sweeper Ben Fernandez. The senior captain provides talent and experience on the backline for the Rams. Senior Xavier Roberts is an excellent complement to Fernandez. Roberts can play anywhere on defense and isn’t afraid to make a run. Smith has been solid in net after taking over as a sophomore.

Sophomore stopper/sweeper Jason Criollo is a quick, versatile performer who makes good decisions. Junior right back Tyler Intagliata marks his man well, and is the type of player that Van Kovics needs on the field at all times.

Cheu and junior captain Carmine Fuschetto, a player Van Kovics calls another coach on the field, are the mainstays in the middle of the field. Fuschetto marks well and does a nice job of sending the ball to the flag. Cheu is skilled with the ball and is excellent at setting up teammates for scoring chances. 

Grogan, an All-Conference recipient and another of the team’s captains, can play both midfield and forward. Sophomore Fabricio Barbosa is probably the team’s most talented player. Barbosa, who missed last season with an injury, is the quickest player on the team. He’s faced double teams often in the early part of the season. 

Van Kovics believes his team can return to the playoffs. “If we work hard, stay focused, follow the blueprint, and take things a game at a time, we should be ok,” Van Kovics said. “Little by little, we’re trying to get better each day.”

West Hempstead will host Friends Academy on Oct. 1 at 4:30 p.m.