Smithtown West boys lacrosse's defense holds fort, offense steps up in win over Miller Place
Will Fitz of Smithtown West circles from behind the goal during a Suffolk Division II boys lacrosse game against Miller Place in Smithtown on Friday, April 8, 2022. Credit: Peter Frutkoff
In a matchup between two Suffolk II heavyweights, the Smithtown West boy’s lacrosse team announced its presence Tuesday night against Miller Pace.
After a slow offensive start in the first half, the Bulls leaned on their defense and faceoff game and pushed the tempo in a five-goal third quarter in their 12-7 win at home.
“This was a game we had to win,” said Ronnie Trebing, who scored two goals in the third quarter and three overall. “They’re a good team and their defense played pretty well, but we were able to push the ball in the second half and get some goals going our way.”
Trebing’s third goal came with 5:05 left in the third quarter to give Smithtown West a 9-5 lead. Will Fitzsimmons scored his third of four goals two minutes later to send the Bulls into the fourth quarter up 10-5.
“We noticed they were a little late to slide, so we knew we would be able to keep moving the ball and eventually get the best shot up,” Fitzsimmons said.
Defense prevailed in a back-and-forth first half, with the Bulls taking a 5-4 lead into halftime. Despite the tight score, Smithtown West maintained control of the ball for much of the first half thanks to Nicholas Cottage, who won 14 of 22 total faceoffs.
“He’s a difference maker,” head coach Bob Moltisanti said. “When you’re not playing as clean as you’d like offensively, it’s crucial to get those extra possessions.”
Miller Place (2-2) made the most of its few chances, as Anthony Bartolotto led the way with four unassisted goals on five shot attempts.
Smithtown West also took advantage of four Miller Place penalties, scoring two man-up goals in the second half. Ronnie’s brother, Ryan Trebing added two goals and one assist and Dylan Bonasera made seven saves for the Bulls.
After reaching the Suffolk I semifinals last year, Smithtown West is now 3-1 in Suffolk II and 5-1 overall. While the early success is a welcome sight, the Bulls know their division is rich with talent and that they’ll have to continue to earn each win going forward.
“There are a lot of really good teams. Every game is going to be contested,” Moltisanti said. “You can’t take a game off. You can’t relax because every game is vital.”
