Over the next couple of days we’re going to be giving a quick snapshot of the Section 1 Boys and Girls Soccer picture as we move into the heart of league play. We’ll be providing our prediction on what the final would be in each Class, who are the teams we think are capable of making the final four, and one matchup that we think will have the biggest impact on seeding. Let’s go!
Championship Matchup: Scarsdale vs. North Rockland
Scarsdale might have had their 47 game unbeaten streak ended at Arlington two weeks ago, but the Raiders are still the team to beat in Class AAA. Seniors Lorenzo Galeano and Leo Khang are arguably the best MF/F combo in the section and Junior Will McAllister has stepped up in a key scoring role.
In six matches this season, North Rockland has outscored opponents 17-3 and has put up 10 goals in their last two matches. Senior Jon Morocho anchors a stout defense and Anthony Pesantez is a steady presence in the middle. This was an incredibly tough call between North Rockland and Ossining, but the scoring capability of the Raiders puts them in the final if we have to pick today.
Poised to Make Some Noise: Ossining, Arlington, Ketcham
Ossining really is the most likely contender of this group, but Arlington’s stunning win over Scarsdale immediately vaulted them into title talk. Combining that with tight losses to North Rockland and Ossining, the Admirals seem like they can hang with anyone in the section. Ketcham is still one of the only two unbeaten teams in the class at 3-0-2, but has yet to play any top teams.
Check out this successful set piece from Arlington last week, with the header assist from Declan Gallagher and the finish by Matt Mazella.
Matchup to Watch Down the Stretch: Ketcham vs. Arlington
Ketcham and Arlington meet on 10/5 and then again to end the regular season on 10/21. The Admirals have already shown they can play with the top teams in AAA, while the Storm still has a lot of proving to do. If Ketcham can sweep the series, the postseason will have a very different outlook.
