Narrow defeats sting Copiague

With just three games remaining, Copiague’s boys’ soccer team finds itself with a record of 5-8 overall, including a 1-4 mark in league play.

While the door is still open for the Eagles to make a run, they have suffered some heartbreaking losses along the way. “This has really been a torturous stretch,” coach Jim Konen said. “Multiple times we have given up a game-winning goal in the final two minutes.”

During those games against Newfield, a game they lost 2-1, and Bay Shore, where they fell 3-2, the Eagles also had scoring chances of their own late in the game but were unable to capitalize.

“We have battled the whole way in each contest,” said Konen. “It’s just been super unfortunate to see things not go our way. We have been very unlucky.”

Despite some tough losses Copiague has suffered along the way, Konen has been pleased with the players’ attitude as they continue to move forward. “I like our attitude at practice,” he said. “The spirits are still really high which is important, especially during this time of year.”

A big reason for all the positivity is thanks in large part to two veteran leaders. Senior midfielders Christian Cabrera and Anthony Ramierez have both played huge roles in terms of leadership. “Anthony is a four year varsity player while Christian has been on varsity for three years and you can tell by the way they have led,” said Konen. “It’s been awesome to see them take that next step this season.”

As for the approach going into the final three games against Connetquot, Lindenhurst, and Bay Shore, the Eagles’ goal is to continue to keep their foot on the gas pedal. “We have to play desperately,” Konen said. “We are close to being eliminated at this point so we need points in every contest which is something we are capable of if we play the right way.”

One of the biggest keys to success for Copiague has been its ball movement. In its 3-2 win over Sachem North Oct. 10, that proved to be the case. “We had assists on all three goals in that game,” said Konen, referring to the helpers from Jon Contreras-Mejia, Kevin Cruz and Ismael Garcia. “When we move the ball, we are a really good team.”

When looking for offense the team looks to guys like Cruz, who leads the team with seven goals, and Anthony Ramierez, who has scored in each of the last three contests. The Eagles have also seen offensive contributions from junior midfielder Ismael Garcia, who netted a goal in a 5-2 loss to Commack Oct. 10.

Kendel Serranno has had a steady year in goal as well, recording 73 saves, so his clutch play will certainly be needed down the stretch, along with help from defenders Rene Canales and Odane Purcell, who both do a lot on the back end.