NCN SPORTS BLOG

Class B

#1 John Jay (17-2) vs. #2 Somers (17-3)

Last time: The Indians defeated the Tuskers 15-4 at Somers. Leading only 4-2 at the half, Jay exploded for 11 second half goals, outscoring the Tuskers 11-2. Brian Douglass led the Indians with 3 goals and 3 assists. Chris Bocklet dished out 4 assists and scored 1 goal.

Key players: Chris Bocklet (JJ), Justin Schneidman (JJ), Kevin Drew (JJ), Matt Marasco (S), Joe Marasco (S), Evan Von Heyn (S)

Outlook: The Tuskers, who have had an amazing season, are unfortunately matched up with the powerhouse Indians. With the trio of All-American attackmen — Stockel, Douglass and Bocklet — Jay has one the most lethal offenses in the country. Tim Schurr, a defensive mastermind, will have his hands full in containing them. Coppolecchia, Marasco and Barzelatto will have to be other worldly. Seeing that Somers held Jay to only one goal in the opening quarter of their first match-up, it’s not inconceivable to think they have a shot at shutting them down.

However, Jay has too many weapons, including Kevin Drew. Drew is in another class athletically and should be able to create for himself in the midfield.

Tim Lewis, who plays the role of ‘the horse’ for the Tuskers, is going to have to play the game of his life in between the restraining boxes. Lewis will have to be an everyman, making all the hustle plays in order to keep the time of possession in favor of the Tuskers.

Marasco will have to create beyond his wildest dreams from attack. Von Heyn, whether playing attack or middie, must finish his opportunities. He has the ability to work from behind the cage and overpower his man above the plane of the goal to angle in for a shot. He did this splendidly the last time the two teams met up.

I believe that Somers is arguably second best team in Section I — regardless of Class A, B or C. But they got unlucky — being stuck in Class B with the buzzsaw that is John Jay.

At the end of the day, Jay has too much depth and talent.

Prediction: Jay 12, Somers 6

Thoughts? Predictions? Analysis?