Girls Soccer MCT: The Sweet 16

Girls Soccer – MCT “The Sweet 16”
Oct. 6, 2007

For Complete Brackets with Times & Dates: Click Here – A job well done by the AD in charge, Scott Rosenberg from Kinnelon.

The preliminary round is now I the books and we’re down to 16. The opening round may have deprived us of a marked upset, but definitely gave us a plenty to talk about … Mt. Olive & Hanover Park won decisively while every other game kept the fans on the edge of their seats until the deciding whistle … or kick for that matter. #14 Parsippany Hills advanced on Toni Defeo’s goal, giving the Vikings a 1-0 victory. MCHSS.net was there. Parsippany edged past a relentless Bulter team, 2-1. Nicole Grande knocked in both goals as the #12 Red Hawks moved on. Mountain Lakes won the game of the day … holding off Madison and advancing on kicks. But the game of the weekend came on Monday … ok, a long weekend. The Scarlet Knights were the only road team to advance in this round. You can see all the video highlights … because MCHSS.net was there.

Sixteen Candles:

(17) Morris Hills at (1) Morris Catholic: The MCT was a bright spot for the Scarlet Knights, but they are still struggling. Casey Sherwood stopped the 6th Whippany Penalty kick, enabling the Knights to advance. Morris Hills dropped a 3-1 decision to Parsippany on Friday with a 3-0 loss to Summit before that. Morris Catholic is sitting pretty at #17 in the state as ranked by The Star Ledger. The Crusaders improved to 10-0 and finished the week with 5-1 victory over Cedar Grove. Although the Crusaders have not been tested in conference play, the Scarlet Knights do not have enough to keep up with Denville-based school. Look for Moonie Mancho and Kathleen Schuckers to add to the goal-tally and move up the Daily Record Scoring Leaders chart. Plus, the Crusaders have the player with best name in Morris County Girls Soccer: Moonie Mancho! Prediction: Morris Catholic moves on 5-0.

Note: To be fair Mendham’s Dovlyn Curtis and Mikaila Weaver were also on the ballot, but the committee voted unanimously for Mancho.

(9) Villa Walsh at (8) Chatham: This has not been a good week for the once undefeated Vikings. Villa dropped their first game of the season to DePaul. Both teams left the game with identical 7-1-1 records. The 7th win was a very hard fought battle with, then 1-6, Montville. Michelle Sak scored in overtime to lift the Vikings. On Thursday, the Vikings fell to Caldwell 2-0. Chatham faced Par Hills and West Essex this week. Chatham recorded a break through week starting with 4-0 victory over Par Hills. The Cougars also defeated West Essex in overtime last night, 4-3. That’s eight goals against 2 solid teams. The only hope for Villa here is that Chatham will not fully recover from the late Friday night game. But, this is still a bad formula Villa. Look for Chatham to continue a pile on Villa’s bad week. Prediction: Chatham 5-1

(12) Parsippany at (5) Kinnelon: This is a very good MCT Match-up. Parsiuppany comes in at 7-5 off an impressive 3-1 victory over Morris Hills and a 6-0 win over Dover. Kinnelon had to come back from a 2-0 deficit to earn a tie with Pingry 2-2. The tie is Kinnelon’s second with the state power. Katie Burke was very strong for the Colts in the match-up. The spark of confidence is just what the Colts need going into the MCT match-up against the upset minded Red Hawks. Prediction: Kinnelon 3-1

(13) Hanover Park at (4) Morristown: Hanover was on fire and comes in off a 5-0 win over Dover. The Hornets have been finding the net and when I say Hornets, I mean Hornets. The East Hanover based school has received scoring from a multitude of players. Kelly Funk has been attacking the net and beating goalies. When she she’s stopped, sophomore Averie Sheppard has benefited. With great instincts, Sheppard has been burying rebounds. Then the Hornets ran into Mendham. Morristown resembles the minutemen in many ways and will limit the Hornets’ scoring chances. Morristown is strong in every aspect of the game. The Colonials come in off a 2-2 tie with West Morris. Brenna Lade has been strong in the pipes for the Colonials and maybe tested by the Hornets. But Morristown’s strong defense coupled with Lade’s strong play should be able to hold off the 13-seed. Prediction: Morristown by two.

(14) Par Hills at (3) Randolph: Randolph beat Columbia 2-0. The Rams lost to West Morris, 1-0 in overtime, on Thursday. Par Hills had lostto Chtham early in the week and come into the game under .500. A big win could be very helpful in making the states, but the Rams are just too strong, especially at home. Prediction: Randolph by 2
(11) Mt. Olive at (6) West Morris: West Morris took the 1st meeting, earlier in the season, 1-0. Since then West Morris has been solid and is staying in every game. Mt. Olive cannot seem to get the breaks and catch a big win, but a 1-0 loss to Knolls lets you know that this team can keep it close. Anything can happen during the MCT and this is where teams seem to play their best, but the Marauders need to find the net – a task that has come easy Prediction: West Morris by 1, in overtime.

(10) Morris Knolls at (7) Mendham: This games has the best potential for an upset. Mendham has been inconsistent. Knolls is coming off a 1-0 win over Mt. Olive and a 3-0 win over High Point. Radovcic is finding the net at a steady and consistent pace. Mendham’s solid victory over Hanover Park maybe a statement the Minutemen are ready for the second half of the season. This is the game of the day! Prediction: Knolls wins on kicks.

(15) Mtn Lakes at (2) Roxbury: The Lakers were just defeated by Whippany Park. Roxbury is still benefiting from an airtight defense and the goal scoring prowess of Michelle Marabondo and company. Roxbury has only one loss entering this game, and should advance over the CHC-underdog. Prediction: Roxbury 5-0

MCT Preview: Boys Soccer

THE ROUND OF 16

RESULTS:

#2 Kinnelon 3 - 2 #15 Morris Knolls

PREVIEWS:

#16 West Morris at #1 Delbarton: The #1 Seed have a great out-of-conference schedule that only benefits the Green Wave in situations like this. West Morris has rolled off three straight wins, all 1-goal victories. Their last loss was a 5-0 setback to Columbia.

Why Delbarton will win: The Green Wave are solid in every aspect of the game. No one has been able to find a weakness in Delbarton’s armor and that because there may not be one. Six of nine victories have come via the shut out. Delbarton’s depth on the field allows for a steady, yet aggressive back line while he offense will attack in wave, a little pun intended. The returning MCT finalists are lead by Theo Patsalos-Fox and John Scally with Will Walsh in goal. Donny MacMaster knocked in two against Caldwell and is just one of many in a cast of goal-scorers for the Wave.

How the Highlanders can pull the upset: Tough task here, but West Morris has played an ultra-competitive schedule. Columbia has a solid grip on the IHC-Iron, and dominated West Morris earlier in the week. Can a 5-0 less be helpful? Definitely, if Central can learn what not to do against a Delbarton squad that can explode for goals. West Morris will not only need to play strong, pesky-like defense to take Delbarton out of their offensive flow, but also take advantage of any good scoring chances they get. Matt Gelsinger and Kyle Cavanaugh scoring earlier in the week against Morristown. Evan Guarini and Phil Brigando knocked in goals in a 2-1 win over Randolph. If the Highlanders can get a few quality shots while Delbarton concentrates on the Mike Pytlar and Anthony Germinario, an upset may not be much of a surprise. They need to get an early goal and not allow Delbarton to build any momentum.

Prediction: I like West Morris’ tough and aggressive physical play, but Delbarton is just too strong and too deep. This game should be close at the half and do not be surprised if Central has lead, but Delbarton is too well rested and will get the best of the second half. Delbarton by two

#14 Morristown at #3 Chatham: Tough week with he Cougars have had a two one-goal victories over Dover and West Essex. While both teams are strong, Chatham will have little rest coming off the Friday night battle with par Hills. Morristown also defeated Dover by one goal, but has since lost two straight.

Why Chatham will win: Despite coming off the Friday night game with Par Hills , the cougars will be ready. Chatham has been consistant all year and an overtime win over West Essex can only bring more confidence to the already successful Cougars.

How the Colonials could advance: Morristown is opportunistic, and this is one major opportunity. In now way does Morristown fear the Cougars and despite being on a two game losing streak, the extra rest may be just work in their favor.

Prediction: Morristown benefits from their large home field, but the turf at Chatham is a Cougars Ace in the hole. Chatham by 2.

#12 Randolph at #5 Par Hills: It’s no secret that Par Hills is a team to be reckoned with. The Vikings are in need of a big conference win tonight at Chatham. (You maybe be reading this after that game.) You and I both know that the Vikings are ready to beat Chatham, who took the 1^st meeting 1-0 on opening day. Randolph had just lost to West Morris for the second time this year, 2-1 on Thursday and 4-0 in September.

Why Parsippany Hills will win: Despite coming off the Chatham game and having one less day rest, the Vikings will be ready. Par Hills has been finding the net. Dave Pryzblo has scored the Vikings last 4 goals, not counting the Weequahic game -- all three goals in a 3-0 victory over Summit and one in 3-1 loss to West Essex. The counties leading scorer has an obvious knack for the net and big game players set it up in big games.

How the Rams can knock down the Vikings? The Rams has lost 4 of their last 5 and are in desperate need of a win here. The key … shutting down Morris County’s leading scorer. No secret there. Randolph will keep this close and match Parsippany Hills physical game. A Randolph win comes at the hands of keeper Andrew Brower. Randolph has been limiting shots, so one or two key saves could get the Rams through – maybe in a shoot-out.

Prediction: This should be a very close game – almost an understatement for a MCT game. I stomach keeps telling me to take Randolph on kicks, but I keep writing down Vikings by one. Par Hills in overtime.

#20 Boonton at #4 Morris Catholic: A 2-1 victory over Sparta is a perfect warm-up for their MCT opener.

Why Catholic will win: Although the Crusaders are rarely tested I the CHC. The Denville based school is solid throughout the field and posses plenty of depth off the bench. They just have too many weapons for the Bombers.

Boonton tidbits: The Bombers won their 4th game of the season with an MCT upset of conference-foe Mtn Lakes. The Bombers advanced in dynamic fashion. First, Boonton tied the game up on a goal by Steven Villada, the Bombers goal-keep, with just 18 minutes left in regulation. After a scoreless overtime, Boonton hit on 3 penalty kicks while Mtn Lakes failed on all tries. Boonton had lost the last two meeting with Lakers by a score of 2-1. Boonton has the only played one game this week, a 2-0 loss to Whippany Park.

Prediction: Many would love to see a Cinderella run from the Bombers, but Catholic is just too strong. Look for the Crusaders to advance. Morris Catholic by 3.

#11 Morris Hills at #6 Mendham: These two teams met last Saturday in a rare night game in Rockaway. Morris Hills took the game 2-0 and has rolled off five straight wins going into today’s game against Parsippany.

What gives Mendham the edge: Ouch! I can hear you know … “Come on coach, Hills just beat Mendham 2-0, and 2-0 is a shut out! What are you thinking?” One – it is very difficult to beat a good team twice, none the less twice in one week. Morris Hills has lost their top player due to a Red Card on Monday and you saw what happens to Morris Hills when they lose players, even one. Plus Mendham is at home and the Minutemen are a tougher team at home. Rob Berish and

What can Morris Hills do to advance: Easy … play the same game and get much need help between the pipes. The Scarlet Knights are hot and playing at the level they were expected to during the preseason. Teamwork is key here.

Prediction: With Santiago missing, Mendham gets the advantage on paper. This one is a coin flip either way. Morris Hills in overtime.

#10 Madison at #7 Montville: Montville ran into Delbarton last week and the result was in the Mustangs favor. Madison, also having a great season, has dropped two in a row. The first a loss to Pequannock, who was winless entering the game, came on the heel of the Dodgers knocking the Panthers out of the MCT. The second loss came to Montville 3-0.

Why the Mustangs will win: Monvtille experienced one of its best season in school history last year and this team is eager to remain on that pace. After a 3-0 win yesterday, as well as witnessing what happened to Madison. Ekene Okereke a definite play-maker. Okereke, along with Sam Gehman will be the difference.

Can Madison turn the tables? The loss to Pequannock must have been a big surprise to most, but defeating a conference team two games in a row is not an easy task. Madison was in the midst of a 4 game winning streak before falling to Pequannock and Montville.

Prediction: Montville is too strong for the Dodger. Montville by 2.

#15 Morris Knolls at #2 Kinnelon: Do not look now, but Morris Knolls has not only won four straight, but the Eagles have not let up a goal since their loss to Columbia two weeks ago. Kinnelon is one of two undefeated teams left in Morris County. The Colts toughest match so far was a 2-1 victory over Whippany Park.

Will the #2-seed advance: This does have the making of upset and Kinnelon was in no way rewarded for their undefeated season with a 15-seed like Knolls. The Golden Eagles maybe the best team Kinnelon has seen thus far. Knolls will definitely be the most physical team that Kinnelon has seen. Kinnelon does have too many weapons for most teams, and Knolls has secured up their back. A win here will not easy. Keeper Eric Makinen is solid and will be the difference.

Is Knolls really the Dark-Horse? Looking at the last 4 games, you can easily rename the Eagles, a contender … at least a favorite to make the top 4. I know I have said this before, but smaller schools historically have not faired well in the MCT. The four straight shut-out wins make you wonder ...

The Prediction: Could this tournament be any tougher to predict? My expert had Kinnelon winning here, but that was before Knolls was back to full strength. I am going with my dark horse here. Knolls by 1.

Volleyball-Week 3 & MCT

Morris County - Week #3 (plus) – MCT Preview

• By Coach Carchietta – http://www.mchss.net/
• Monday, September 23 – Saturday, October 3, 2007

The Star Ledger Coverage: Many people have been complaining about the lack of coverage this year. I hope you understand that every sport is facing the same dilemma that you are. Coaches are frustrated that they cannot use the computer system. They have been old not to call. They have been to email results, which may not always be possible until well after deadline. I have seen the cry, in many sports, to boycott the Ledger. This was an idea that I pushed 3 years ago when the Ledger went from a normal block of results to “Tennis” Results. I had spoke with the editor and he believed that more names are getting in. Which I actually agree with, what other sport (besides tennis) gets every kids name in? I am sure that you have seen the coaches that list every player, even the kid with 1 dig. I know that you miss Joey Batts. He was definitely a champion for volleyball in the Media. In all honesty, he was limited to maybe one big article a week, so I really think that if you are complaining about coverage, you really should just ask the record & Ledger for one article a week. The Daily Record does not have a main volleyball person any longer, but I have it on good authority that they are looking for another writer to fill the void. But I think that the guest appearance by Sandy Seegers was a fantastic bonus for the volleyball community! In summary, The Ledger will have a nice system, once it is up and running the way it should be. In my opinion, it should have been fixed in mid-September. They know that they get over 14,000,000 hits a month from HS Sports. If you want to boycott … fine … but a volleyball boycott will not help, it will only hurt. If you want to boycott, get everyone to boycott for a week -- all sports! That will send a message. The ball is in your court. I want more coverage for every kid. I am very happy to work with an paper, all they have to do is ask. Note: I do find it funny that scores are posted twice in the Volleyball results on a daily basis. I also know that some coaches will not email the Ledger and have become completely frustrated with supplying The Ledger info.

• Monday: Kinnelon fell to 4-6 with a loss to (now a state power) Science in two. I have had an opportunity to watch the Science Volleyball program build from the ground up. When I first began coaching volleyball in 1999, Science and WP were at the same level. The people at Science have dedicated their time and efforts to their kids in all the right ways and it has paid off. That is one success story for all to admire; Madison @ Lakeland; Montville up’d their record to 6-1 with a victory over Passaic Valley. Michele Braden supplied 5 kills to help the Mustangs win in an impressive fashion, 25-15; 25-19. Morris catholic won a grueling 2-0 battle with CHC-foe Montclair Immaculate. I can tell you that the Immaculate gym, much like the Lacordaire gym, is a huge advantage for the Lions, no matter what their record. Whippany took a game from a strong MKA squad in a 2-1 loss. Head MKA coach Mike Tully has really improved that program overnight and over the past three season, the Cougars have been a solid contender. St. Elizabeth’s faced Caldwell and fell to 2-5. Just take note of their record now. Morristown fell to West Essex.
  The game of the day: Mendham defeats Livingston in two. This is how you rebound from a hurtful defeat at Chatham. The Minutemen handed the Lancers their first loss of the season with a 2-0 victory (25-18, 25-17). Jen Scala (6 kills) and Megan Lynch (7 kills) were solid en route to victory.

• Tuesday: West Morris took Roxbury in two and improved to 5-2. Chatham continues their solid play with a two game win over Par Hills. Timothy Christian is a Moris County school. They defeated Wardrdlaw-Hartridge in three and are now 1-2 on the season. Ironically, they only seem to enter Morris County events in track, a sports which they have a few top rated runners. Hanover fell to 1-6 with a loss to West Essex, again, note this record. Randolph
  Game of the Day: Mt. Olive’s run continued with a taxing match against Parsippany on the road; 25-21 and 39-37. Coach Titus from Parsippany described the marathon as, “Simply Insane. Both teams played extremely well. It was just a shame that one of them had to lose.” Mosher was strong with 8 kills, but it was Hannan Ensel’s serving that frustrated the Red Hawks. The senior tallied 7 aces. “Titus added, “Ensel just rallied off to many service points. She easily has the best high school girl's serve I've seen in some years of coaching.” Nicole Muller knocked down 8 kills with 10 digs. A few impressive states for the Red Hawks in defeat:
  Parsippany
• OH, Holder: 1 ace, 13 kills, 2 blocks, 13 digs
• L, Loaiza: 1 kill, 1 assist, 18 digs
• S, Mendoza: 1 ace, 1 kill, 1 block, 17 assists, digs
• S, Mest: 2 aces, 4 kills, 1 block, 9 assists, 5 digs

• Wednesday: Randolph improved to 4-3 with a two game victory over Pope John. The Rams took both games 25-21. I have received an email mentioning that I may want to consider Pope John for my top 10, but they are a Sussex County team and do not qualify for consideration. Mendham and Mt. Olive went three. With the Marauders taking the first game 25-22, Mendham had to fight back and grab the final two. St. Elizabeth’s took Madison in two and improved to 3-5. West Morris was pounding in the first game against Bridgewater-Raritan, but regrouped and took the final two games 25-17, and 25-17. This was a definite highlight of the Highlanders season thus far. Verona took Whippany Park, as the Wildcats fell to 2-5. Caldwell beat Montville. Kinnelon beat Arts.
  

• Thursday: In case you did not notice (and this needs to be mentioned), The Star Ledger gave Volleyball their won headlines. That is a big step in the right direction for what the volleyball community wants. Unfortunately, many of the scores were reversed, confusing the heck out of me. We need o start with Whippany Park’s win over University. The third victory of the year for the Wildcats came on an exciting 26-24 victory in the second game. Heather Conway was strong for the cats with 3 kills. Mt. Olive improved to 6-3 with a win over Summit. West Morris defeated Randolph. I was at the Knolls match with Parsippany. Parsippany jumped to leads in both games one and two, but Knolls executed to perfection there after and took both games. The scores did not indicate that the game was much more competitive than the scores showed.
• The Game of Day: Chatham was dominate in victory in a much anticipated IHC-battle with Mendham, Sandy Seeger covered the game. You can read the excellent article at the dailyrecord.com.
  

• Friday: You can call it a run … Whippany Park is back in the post-season hunt, improving to 4-5. St. Elizabeth’s improved to 4-5 and upset Montville in two. The mustangs fell to 6-3. Chatham remained undefeated knocking off Morris Knolls in two and keeping the Eagles under 20 in both. Just a note, Livingston picked up a game against Group 1 contender Science. The Lancers, were impressive in victory as both teams ended the day with 7-1 records. These pick up games are a must for the smaller schools if they want to survive in the states against the powers from Bergen County. Many larger schools feel they have nothing to gain by playing a small school. Kudos to Livingston for grabbing the game. It’s even more impressive that they are playing the game the night before their tournament. On another note, MKA is now 8-0 and defeated University in two.

• Saturday: West Morris participated in the Livingston Invitational. Hanover Park is now 3-6 after defeating Morristown. St. E’s dropped the first game to Newark Academy, but took the second two rather easily. Mt. Olive was the story on Saturday. The Marauders took home two wins from “neighboring” Hackettstown and New Brunswick. Mt. Olive’s first win over New Brunswick gave coach Clowers his 100th victory. You can see the highlight on my site.

• Monday: The Ledger came out with the Volleyball capsule. Chatham standout Marika Racibarskas was the “Player of the Week.” Congratulations! Chatham was ranked #3, Caldwell #12 and Livingston #19. I know the latter two are Essex, but we (Morris teams) play them in conference, so well noted. Chatham is ranked #1 in Group 2 and West Morris is at #9 in Group 3. Mendham comes in at #9 in Group 2. There are no ranking by county.

• Tuesday: Seeding day – we’ll get to that last … Montville took out Whippany and ended the Wildcats winning streak. Par Hills fell to West Essex.

I would first like to add that seeds are only to set up the tournament. Some people take pride in their seeds and get very upset on the number attached to their school name. This is a big mistake! Count Tournaments are won and lost on match-ups. Granted West Morris is the only team to have won the MCT, but people get too caught up in the number.

The Seeds:

1-Chatham: Easily the number 1 seed. Undefeated and never in doubt. It does not matter that West Morris came in with three losses to out-of-county/conference teams, coaches reward undefeated teams and deservingly so. Also, I like the match-ups as Mendham and West Morris are in the bottom bracket. A true reward for coming in undefeated. The Cougars will play the winner of Morris Catholic and Morristown. I have the utmost respect for the Morris catholic team. I was curious if they were going to enter this tournament and I am very glad they did. ALL MORRIS COUNTY TEAMS SHOULD ENTER NO MATTER WHAT!

2-West Morris – gets the #2 and deservingly so. Their win over Mendham secured this seed and the county coaches were smart enough to respect the out-of-schedule of the Highlanders. West Morris will play #15

3-Mendham – Another easy choice for #3. As long as they remember that a loss is just a loss 25-23 or 25-8, it still counts as 0-1. Nothing worse. Not only that, it’s the past and a game to be learned from. The Minutemen host Par Hills in the 1st round.

4-Mt. Olive – The Coaches rewarded Mt. Olive for their record. This gives Mt. Olive two home games if they get past Hanover Park.

5-Morris Knolls – Could have easily swapped seeds with Mt. Olive. Knolls hosts Whippany Park. This is one time where although Knolls should have been 4, and Mt. Olive 5, it all works out because I feel that Hanover should have been 12 and Whippany 13. Whippany has pulled upsets twice in the past two years in the MCT.

6-Montville – The Mustangs were in great shape to be a 4, but ended up at 6. Two losses could have easily dropped the Mustangs lower, but this is where they should be with the record they came in with. They will host Madison. Montville was upset last year by Whippany Park, I believe it was only the 8/9 game, but still an upset by seed numbers.

7-Kinnelon – Kinnelon, on the other hand was victim, two years ago to the biggest upset in Morris County Volleyball History when the #4 Colts fell to the #13 Wildcats of Whippany Park. The Colts drew a dangerous Parsippany team and will have to battle not to be upset again. This is definitely the marquee match-up of the round.

8-Randolph – The Rams come in at 8 and have been playing an inconsistent game. St. Elizabeth’s (who I cannot recall if they have entered the tournament last year and/or before). St. Elizabeth’s is playing well, dominating Madison and knocking off Montville. The Rams need to be ready and not over look the 9-seed.

Predictions: Since home court is a huge advantage, all home teams will advance with the exception of Kinnelon. The Colts are very well coached an d the Red Hawks maybe slumping, but look for the Red Hawks to make a move in the second half.

My comments: I believe, and I maybe wrong, but I think 17 ties the record for most teams entered. Morristown-Beard, Jefferson, Morris County Tech have did not and that is a shame. Jefferson entered the Boys soccer tournament, but not the girls. Jefferson Boys were 1-6 or 1-7, but still entered and I very much respect that. Morristown-Beard never enters the MCT in Volleyball. Although I have seen them in the girls basketball tournament. I sincerely wish here was some rule that stated if you do not enter, you cannot enter for for two more years. I seriously wonder if these teams were 7-3 or just really good, would they be in the tournament?

In a preview review, I posted an email from a loyal reader. I was lucky enough to receive more insightful information from the unknown njo poster, so I will gladly share the educated analysis with you:
Clearly

• Chatham is the team to beat. They have an excellent setter , very good outside and good middle and libero. The only issue for Chatham is their depth, but should not be a problem. They beat Mendham handily at their court and won the Bloomfield tournament, but I don’t think they have been severely tested. Still should not be a problem
• WMC is a young inconsistent team. Played well at home vs Mendham and away versus Bridgewater, but struggled against Livingston, Wayne Valley and Hunterdon Central. They played well in the Paramus tournament, not so great in the Livingston… it will be interesting what team shows up.
• Mendham is also a young and inexperienced team. They have a dominant outside hitter, but 2 new inexperienced setters. They lost 2 matches in big games (Chatham and WMC); however, have excellent wins against Livingston, Westfield and Voorhees. The next in season matches against WMC and Chatham will be at home and should be much tighter. They made it to the silver finals at the Paramus tournament and the gold bracket in the Livingston tournament. I think it will be an interesting semi-final between WMC and Mendham
• Seeds 4- 6 (Mt Olive, Morris Knolls and Montville) are all somewhat interchangeable. Montville has the same record as Mt. Olive, but probably has played the weaker schedule. Mt. Olive has strong potential, but has been up and down (lose to Randolph, beat Parsippany, took Mendham to 3 games)…. Morris Knolls is always a tough game. I believe the best quarterfinal game will be Mt. Olive and Morris Knolls.
• The Kinnelon/Parsippany match should be the best of the first round. Parsippany has 2-3 solid players, but not much depth… Kinnelon has some solid OHs and is always a wild card in the tournament
• It is great to see a play-in game, Morris County volleyball is getting better and more respected
  
  
  

Girls MCT: Mo Hills 2-1 Whippany Park

Swami & Coach -- Round 5

Swami & Coach Eye Essex-Morris As Key Games Hold Little Debate

The Sideline Swami from sidelinechatter.com, must try to regain his prior form after a second straight mediocre week as he and The Coach from MCHSS.net had their respective hits and misses in what was a challenging week. The Swami was right on in choosing Livingston to knock off West Morris, but the Coach made a big statement by selecting East Orange to knock off Seton Hall Prep. With only one more delay thanks to further comments from The Coach, on to week 5:,

The Coach: Last Week: 3-3 -- Season: 16-8

The Swami: Last Week: 3-3 -- Season: 18-6

The Coach: I am still two games back and not happy about it! I was too smart to brag last week when I gained some ground on the champion of gridiron prognostication, and I know what I need to do this week. Ya see … it’s all about game plan, breaking down film and … well … flipping a coin.

Friday:

Boonton at Cedar Grove:

The Coach: The story has not changed with the Bombers, their backfield is strong with Anest and Brooks, but it will take a lot for the Boonton to stay with Cedar Grove. I know … Glen Ridge was the best team that the Panthers have faced, but this is too much to ask coming off the Mountain Lakes game. I was also wondering if the Cedar Grove High school would consider changing its name to the Grovers? … think about it! Cedar Grove 28-7.

The Swami: Back in 2004 when Cedar Grove shocked North 2, Group 1 by knocking off Hoboken, 6-0, in Giants Stadium, the Panthers took everyone by surprise. Last year, with Verona and Brearley dominating the section, and Cedar Grove in North 1, the Panthers weren’t a factor come championship weekend. But, this season look for Grove to be a huge player the entire campaign and a possible top choice come the post-season. The running backs Mike Risimini and Patsy Caggiano are a terrific tandem and quarterback Steven Adams is a heady field general. Cedar Grove 35-0.

Verona at Kinnelon:

The Coach: The Colts suffered a devastating loss at the hands of a Morris Catholic. One thing for sure, Kinnelon has shown that they can defend the run, but the focus this week should be to tighten up their pass defense. Big plays can kill in football, and I am sure Verona has seen the film (the one film that is allowed in the CHC – not TWO, but one, welcome to the Colonials Hills Conference.) Verona really took it the Blue Blue last week, and Colts may be on the end of another Hillbillies back yard beating … Verona 28-14

The Swami: It’s still hard to decipher what type of season the Hillbillies will ultimately have, but the feeling is they should get better and better in terms of moving the football, beginning with this Friday night clash in Kinnelon. QB-linebacker Carlo Calabrese leads a physical Verona lineup and talented athletes such as WR-DB Chris Looney provide an edge for the visitors. Verona 21-13.

The Marquee Match-Up

Seton Hall Prep at Mount Olive:

The Coach: I know that I now have a huge fan base out in Pirate-land. It’s true .. I have picked against everyone’s favorite Seton Hall Prep three weeks in a row … will this be four? Ok, here’s the deal … Mt. Olive is riding high. They have a backfield of game breakers. Coach Eckert has these kids believing and on steady run in the right directions. Ken Little and Chris Kyer are explosive (and that maybe an understatement) … but this is the Iron Division and Seton Hall Prep cannot lose 3 in a row? Can they? My heart is breaking as I pick all three Essex county squads on Friday night! Seton Hall Prep 31-28

The Swami: What can the Pirates do to turn their season back in the right direction? Just one word: run…run…and run some more. I still don’t think Mount Olive can handle the physicality of the Prep, led by offensive linemen such as tackles Chris Zarkoskie and Josh Brown. The message to Head Coach John Finnegan and his offensive assistants is simply give the ball to halfback John Merklinger and fullback Rob Paxson behind that formidable front, get first downs, and wear the Marauders down. Yes, Little is a handful with his speed and the Pirates are expected to start back-up QB Zack Colatrella due to an injury to Tyler Thomas. But, still, we like SHP in a good one. Seton Hall Prep 24-14.

Saturday:

The Morris County Special

Montville at Madison:

The Coach: I have been riding the Mustang train! And my sources in the Mustang-Nation that Madison will be focused on the Mustang run attack. In contrast, Coach Gallagher may work his defensive magic and throw everything including the kitchen sink and a few pieces of excess turf at the Dodger air attack. Montville will need a low scoring affair if they plan on moving to 4-1 and basically shocking all of Morris County. Madison has been hit but nothing but bad luck and I have a feeling that the ball bounce in favor of the Dodgers. Madison gets back to 500 as the Mustangs will not be able to eat enough clock nor keep up the with the Dodgers. Madison 35-14

The Swami: I know it might be getting boring to find yours truly agreeing with the Coach, but such is the case in this game as well. I just don’t see Madison losing in this spot, not after a strong showing at Delbarton and a double-overtime loss to a decent Lakeland squad. Not to disparage Montville, which has done everything you could ask so far, but Madison is the stronger and more diversified football team and athletes such as QB-linebacker Sean Allen are simply terrific all-around football players who can change this game. Madison 28-18.

Weequahic at Mendham:

The Coach: Growing up in Morris County, you learn to hate a few things and Mendham football was always one of them. Huh? Why? Because they are always coming at you, beating you down … and they just simply come to play. Just ask Hanover Park after last year’s playoff game. Mendham will, also always do what it takes to steadily keep the game in their favor. More than half of Weequahic’s starters are sophomores. Although they may be improving, this is not their breakout week. I like the Minutemen to move to 4-and-1, but these are two straight weeks that Mendham cannot take lightly. Mendham wins at home, 21-12

The Swami: If this was last year with all-state linebacker Amara Kamara leading the Indians, I would go with the Brick City team, but it’s not the same Weequahic squad we saw cop a first-ever Group 2 crown last December at Rutgers and despite boasting talented athletes such as RB Rashon Vines, this is going to be a tough spot to win at in Mendham against a Minutemen squad that has played well, including in the first half at West Essex a couple of weeks back, and will stop the fleet-footed backs of Coach Altarik White. Mendham 24-14.

Morristown-Beard at Glen Ridge :

The Coach: I knew very little about Glen Ridge and apparently it showed. The Ridgers threw one back in “The Coaches” face (that’s me) and took it to the Wildcats. The Crimson are 2-2 and I see pattern. Two private schools … two wins. Against two public schools … two losses. Glen Ridge is obviously a public school. But, apparently Morristown-Beard has a few surprises up their sleeve ala Kevin Herron. But I like patterns and trends. Another Essex pick … Glen Ridge 27-14.

The Swami: I warned the Coach about Glen Ridge, which if it weren’t for mighty Cedar Grove, could be the team to win the Colonial Hills, Hills Division crown this fall. Coach Duke Mendez has one of his best squads and the Ridgers can start to smell playoff possibilities if they can keep winning the games they’re supposed to win. RB Nick DePhillips goes off here against a Crimson squad that misses the services of standout QB Mike Betz. Glen Ridge 21-13.

Field Hockey: Montville falls

Montville Falls to Millburn, 2-0

In Montville, the Mustangs fell behind early on a fluke goal and could not recover as they lost to the Millers, 2-0 under the lights. Montville controlled the tempo of the game but could not find the back of the cage.

Millburn took the lead with 27:12 in the half on a goal by Katie Huang. This came off a free hit as Huang managed to get the orange ball across the goal line despite the chaos in front of the net. Montville counterattacked up the right side of the field lead by defender Jaclyn Todisco and midfielder Cassandra Colangelo, but Montville’s inability to score from either a corner or a free hit prevented an equalizer.

In the second half, Montville continued to pressure up the left, lead by Kim Armbruster and Nicole Holzberg, but the Mustangs could not capitalize. Despite for offense Coach Mulvaney switched out center defender Vanessa Koodray for an extra attacker but that strategy failed as Millburn added another goal. This time Millburn scored again on the free hit this time by Lucy Johnson. That goal with 6:27 left in the game sealed the Mustangs fate. Montville’s last hurrah came with three minutes to go as Nicole Cemelli sent a free hit towards the goalmouth but the shot was brushed away by the Millburn keeper.

This lost puts Montville at 2-5-2 with only four games left before the cutoff for the state playoffs. The Mustang field hockey team lead by Coach Mulvaney have made the playoffs the past 9 years, and the Mustangs need to win all their games to qualify including Thursday’s game with #6 ranked Madison.

by Andrew Sidebottom for MCHSS.net

Boys MCT: WMC 3 - Parsippany 2

(17) West Morris at (16) Parsippany "

The Pre-game warm up"

• This is a great opening match –up, a brutal game by any means. Both teams play brutal schedules and as a result of a sub-par record have dropped (somehow) to 16 & 17. Parsippany played a scoreless first half with Chatham earlier in the week before falling 3-1. Keeper James Jones stopped 16 shots in the match and can keep the Red Hawks in this game. West Morris moved to 3-4 after knocking off East Orange on Wednesday. Note that West Morris knocked off Randolph (the 12-seed) 4-0 on opening day and can be explosive, but have also been blanked on more than one occasion. Parsippany just knocked off West Essex, 2-1. Overall, this one is too tough to call and will probably end up in overtime or going to kicks. Prediction: I’m going with West Morris on kicks.

"The Story"

• Tooth and nail, flat out ... plain and simple. You have to respect these two teams for playing this game like it was the last game of the season. This was an all out battle and there was never a lull in the action. I'd really like to see a bit less "jawing" from these talented squads. But, hey, if they we're going at each other full throttle and all out, then the game would have never been as exciting. This was one game that could have went either way, but in the end, it was decided on a rocket shot that would any any soccer sharp shooter proud.

"The Video":

MCT Soccer: West Morris advances

(17) West Morris at (16) Parsippany

"The Pre-game warm up"
(17) West Morris at (16) Parsippany: This is a great opening match –up, a brutal game by any means. Both teams play brutal schedules and as a result of a sub-par record have dropped (somehow) to 16 & 17. Parsippany played a scoreless first half with Chatham earlier in the week before falling 3-1. Keeper James Jones stopped 16 shots in the match and can keep the Red Hawks in this game. West Morris moved to 3-4 after knocking off East Orange on Wednesday. Note that West Morris knocked off Randolph (the 12-seed) 4-0 on opening day and can be explosive, but have also been blanked on more than one occasion. Parsippany just knocked off West Essex, 2-1. Overall, this one is too tough to call and will probably end up in overtime or going to kicks. Prediction: I’m going with West Morris on kicks.

"The Story"
Tooth and nail. You have to respect these two teams for playing this game like it was the last game of the season. This was an all out battle and there was never a lull in the action. I'd really like to see a bit less "jawing" from these talented squads. But, hey, if they we're going at each other full throttle and all out, then the game would have never been as exciting. This was one game that could have went either way, but in the end, it was decided on a rocket shot that would any any soccer sharp shooter proud.

"The Video":

MCT Soccer: Morristown advances

(19) Dover at (14) Morristown

"The Pre-game warm up":

• The Tigers were 2-5 after a tough 1-0 loss to Chatham. Morristown entered at 4-3, coming off a win over Livingston. You can’t argue that either plays a tougher schedule, since both sides of the IHC are strong. Morristown just looks to have more weapons. Prediction: Colonials by two goals.

"The Story":

• Tied 1-1 at the half, Morristown used a Stellato header on a perfectly placed ball by Jeff Jimenez. The second goal and a non-stop offensive attack allowed Morristown to take the game and advance to the next round of the MCT. Final 2-1
  

"The Video":

Girls Soccer MCT: Par Hills 1-0

Parsippany Hills Slips Past Montville, 1-0

In Parsippany, the #14 seed Lady Vikings of Parsippany Hills beat the #19 seed Lady Mustangs of Montville 1-0, in the Morris County Tournament Prelims. The Lady Vikings will face the #3 seed Randolph Rams in the next round.

Parsippany Hills controlled the first half but they were unable to score. The Vikings pressured all half but the vistor’s defense, lead by Jessica DiPiazza and goalie Lisa Suroweic, was up to the task. Parsippany Hills managed half a dozen shots in the first half and kept the ball near the Montville goal the entire half. The Montville counterattack was somewhat successful, but Montville was unable to produce offense in the final ten minutes of the half after left wing Lindsey Karl received a yellow card. The first half ended 0-0.

The second half opened up with an offense flurry from both squads. Montville had a few early chances but Parsippany Hills connected first on a goal by Brianna Ruja. The goal occurred off a quick free kick that caught the Montville defense asleep as Lauren Proguardi booted the ball past the back line. Then Ruja shot and the ball skimmed off Suroweic’s glove and into the net. Montville furiously tried for an equalizer but after ten minutes, Parsippany Hills had weather the worst of the counterattack. The closest the Mustangs got was off a free kick by Lindsey McNabb that bounced over the Lady Viking defense and to Ashley Miller. Miller’s shot glanced off goalie Rachel Buraen’s glove and just wide of the post. Parsippany Hills controlled the remainder of the game and Montville only could muster shots from 30 yards out that were well wide. The Vikings finished with 15 shots with seven on goal with one finding the back off the net. The Lady Mustangs had 10 shots with four on goal.

Article & photos by A. Sidebottom for MCHSS.net

Morristown 14 - Morris Knolls 13

Swami & The Coach down!

The Coach and The Swami are trying to keep their chins up. That’s a common quote given to kids after they get their butts whooped, right? I got pummeled on West Morris, Whippany Park and – of course – Morris Hills. A 3-3 week for both of us.

I thought my East Orange was brilliant. The way The Swami loves to bust my chops about Hazelnut coffee, which I hate by the way, just cracks me up. Chalk another one up for the public schools.

Ok, let’s talk bout the West Essex Scarlet Knight’s complete domination over the Morris Hills Scarlet Knights. I’d like to start off with this – I am a self-admitted fair weather friend. Yep, it’s all about what’s hot and where the story is. Being a proud Morris Hills football alum, I was right up their on the band wagon. I loved walking up the hill towards Gifford only to be greeted by 700+ Scarlet Knight fans. I was shocked to see the West Essex side – which has ample seating for visiting bleachers, was not even half full. I think their band was the majority of the fan base. And who missed it, probably missed one of the most powerful regular season games by a West Essex team. Anthony Hayek was a “man amongst boys” in the first half. It looked as if Morris Hills was actually fearful of banging heads with the senior fullback. The Wessex line was man handling Hills and Hayek went untouched for 7-10 yards on more than a few carries. 198 yards in the first half was the damage. One Hills fan actually popped his head in the booth and asked, “What’s the West Essex school record for most yards in a game?” None of us knew, but agreed, we’d be seeing it shortly. Hayek finished with 235 yards. Just an FYI: that Morris Hills record is held by Dave Young, who rushed for 272 yards and 5 touchdowns in the final game of his junior year against none other than West Essex. That was one of the most fun games that I have ever played in. But, back to the game and my pick. West Essex never gave Morris Hills a chance to get in a rhythm, connect on a pass or jump to a lead. The managed the ball in an extremely efficient manner, after the first 2 scoring drives that were 4-plays each. In summary, I was way off. I was a bit heart broken. But very happy that I was witness to monstrous effort, on both side of the ball from Hayek.

The West Morris 21-0 loss surprised me. Again, Livingston is another team that I have not seen. Apparently, they are better than many of us in Morris have thought, especially defensively.

The Randolph pick was very difficult. The rivalry; The Records; Both teams desperate need for a win. Although I predicted a shoot-out, not a clashing defensive battle settled by an NFL-length winning field goal. That’s great stuff – you seriously need to love when the hero is someone that no one thought it would be! Well done Mike McKean!

A few things you need know about:

1) I was happy to note my reaction to the announcers I have seen on Joe Hofmann’s blog. Friday, the new guys at Morris Hills were outstanding! Announcer Gene Melvin and spotter Mike Moncalieri know the game; we’re very fair to both teams, which I can see would not be easy when you’re 3-0 is being dominated. These guys even thanked me on the mic, ok … they thank everyone. At one point, I think they thanked the Mayor of Rockaway and Wharton. I swear I heard them thank Kyle Door and all the past Wharton Fire Chiefs.

2) Morris Knolls: Greatest teamwork I have ever seen. Knolls has had the same announcer since the Benfatti days, but great became better when they employeed a spotter on the field – yes on the field – and in the booth. On the field … How? They had those ear piece walkie-talkies and were in constant conversation. Again, making my life easier!

3) Making my life easier – Do you remember me explaining how great the guys at the Par Hills booth are? I walk in, they are already working – yet – stop and hand me a fantastic, 1^st rate program and a roster that has pronunciations on it. Someone has to explain to these parents that the media – especially guys like me – should really get a roster so that I CAN GIVE THEIR KIDS PRESS! (3a) I’ll start with the not-so-bad: at Knolls, I ask for roster for a media guy. The gentleman is nice and it was only $2. The four page program was not going to break me and the guy said to me – “It’s all goes back to the kids.” He was right, although I was already worked up from the night before.

(3b) I walk up to Gifford and get to the little table where they are selling programs and rosters. I can’t wait to see the MCHSS.net booster ad in the great looking Morris Hills program. So, I ask for rosters. I explain I am with the Media and that I have an in the program. Again, that means nothing. I had a $10-bill and was ready to give it all – as another donation, but decide to simply pay for the program – with my cool ad on page 80 and just walk up the hill and prepare to get the kids some press.

(3c) Call me cheap, but if I spend $5 twice a week for 11 weeks, that is $110 that I could have used towards buying a new video camera or lens so that I give better coverage TO THE KIDS.

(3d) Please – someone … tell these people that a roster should be given to the media. The program, ok, I can see why they’d want money. But, if the roster is in the program, well … do the right thing!

What Happened to Hofmann?

Where was Joe on Friday & why was he on crutches Saturday at Knolls? Here's how it went down. I had just walked away from by roster ordeal and started my up to Gifford Field, the House that Verdun built. I hear my name and it's "Jolting" Joe Hofmann aka "Joey the Hoff." He says, "Hey Vin .. did you get your free roster and program back at the table?" I just smile and start walking up. We pass the home Knights walking down, we nod to Sabo and the other coaches and wish them luck. As we get towards that turn by the pine trees, someone jumps out of the woods in full camouflage, a Ronald Regan Halloween mask and a red bandanna. This wacko kicks me in the bells, and I go drop like bag of potatoes. He then karate kicks Joe in the knee and Joe also drops. As he runs towards Tice house and hops the fence, the guys screams out … “In Sabo we trust.” Believe or NOT!

Back to the prognosticators:

1) I'm about to the ruin the morning for all those ledger bashers -- Sean Reilly at the Ledger picked Morristown over Knolls 14-13. The Ledger Football genius also had Randolph by 3 ... He is the man!

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2) Here’s another guy – who I have no idea who he is and annoyed me a bit when he berated me for going against Mo-Beard a few weeks. Although … he has impressively picked a few upsets and key wins. An impressive 4-1 week must be noted by the humble coach … although I picked Knolls knocking off SHP long before anyone else. I think him and myself were the only two on the Knolls wagon – Here’s his stuff:

1297. Some Morris County Picks

ok. i was only 2-3 last week, but one of my wins was picking morris knolls over top 20 ranked seton hall prep. 2nd week in a row i had a big upset special. i had mount olive over randolph the 2 weeks ago.

here are a few for this week:

Mountain Lakes ove Boonton, big. there is no way possible that boonton can keep this game close. tripuka and company have way too much for boonton. boonton doeas have a good RB in brooks, but he will be smothered in this game. ML 42-18

Morristown over Morris Knolls (upset special #1) i am calling it an upset because MK is coming off the huge win and is back at home this week. but i think morristown has too many weapons, most notably QB colvin. it will be close. Morristown on top. 21-20

Randolph over Roxbury. roxbury is kind of hurting without beal. they are young and randolph is in need of a win at home. big rivalry game is always a close one. randolph. 19-12

Kinnelon over Morris Catholic. lets do the math. kinnelon shut out boonton 21-0. boonton beat morris catholic last week. so kinnelon wins this one. easy enough. kinnelon. 25-13

Morristown-Beard over Newark Academy. close. beard has WR larmond. newark academy does not. that should be enough for a MB team that will even its record at home after getting the destroyed last 2 weeks. MB 26-18

West Essex over Morris Hills. (upset special #2) battle of the knights goes to west essex. anthony hayek will lead west essex to this road victory. dont worry MH. you will see them again in the playoffs. WE 20-19