Strong start for North Shore

North Shore boys’ soccer senior striker Lino Leighton hasn’t wasted time, notching 5 goals in the first four games as the Vikings raced to an unbeaten 3-0-1 start. 

Leighton became the linchpin of last season’s 11-3 squad, finishing second in the conference in goals. North Shore also finished second in Conference A2, runner-up to Locust Valley. 

In the playoffs, things didn’t go as well as hoped as the Vikings lost their first-round match, 2-1, to Lawrence after scoring the game’s opening goal. Lawrence went on to the Nassau County Class A finals.

With a flock of four elite seniors returning, including Leighton, the Sea Cliff/Glen Head school could be an even greater playoff factor and arguably favorites to win the conference championship.

“We were a young team last year, so we didn’t really suffer too much of a loss,’’ coach Mike Bishop said. “The current seniors have matured and improved from last year’’

North Shore has won two conference titles the past seven years. Before that success, North Shore’s program was without a conference title since the 1990’s.

 “I’m reluctant to say that (we can win the counties),’’ Bishop said. “But I think we’ll compete for our conference title. I think we can play with anyone in the conference. The kids are devoted to being successful. And we’ve gotten off to a great start.’’

North Shore’s 1-0 victory over Wheatley on Sept. 12 continued its unblemished record at four matches.

The dangers Leighton presents is a big reason to the fast start. But there’s also two ironman senior defenders, Lorenzo Recine  and Thomas Mallen, who missed almost all of last season with an ACL injury. 

Leighton earned All-County honors in 2023. He scored 5 goals in the first three games with 3 against Seaford and both of the Vikings’ tallies against Lawrence. In the rematch against Lawrence on Sept. 7, the teams tied 2-2. 

“He’s even more ruthless in front of the goal,’’ Bishop said of Leighton. “Even if he’s being double-marked, he’s able to get through defenders and score. Colleges are looking at him and he’s looking to play in college.’’

Ther other key senior is midfielder Griffin Pinter, who has 3 assists in the first four games. “He’s a midfielder who’s all over the field,’’ Bishop said. “He gets quite a few assists, wins tackles, is a good passer and very energetic.’’

Also in the midfield are juniors Henry Cardoza and Lorenzo Riccuiti. Both were on the varsity as sophomores. “They’ve come on very strong,’’ Bishop said. “They really matured and improved since last year.’’ 

 The Maroon’s backbone is their two stout defenders. That Mallen is healthy is a giant boost to the Vikings’ potential conference title. “It’s great to have him back this year,’’ Bishop said. “He looks strong. They’re both strong, tough, big defenders.’’

In goal, North Shore is getting an unexpected boost from Tristan Segal, who is just learning the position. Last fall, Segal came out to play in the field but suffered a season-ending facial injury. Now he’s returned to play the nets. He’s allowed just two goals in the first three games.

“He’s learning the position and playing very well,’’ Bishop said. “He’s been a pleasant surprise. We were a little apprehensive, but he’s been playing well. He’s got good instincts.’’

Hence, there are scant weaknesses. “We’re able to move the ball well because we have some technically skilled players,’’ Bishop said. “We’re not just relying on athleticism. With midfield, forward and defense, we’re pretty solid throughout.’’