It was a beautiful evening at Citibank Park. The Farmingdale Wolves Boys U-11 travel soccer team and the Plainedge U-11 Girls travel team were there not only to watch the Long Island Rough Riders soccer team, but also to participate in the half-time Mini-Match Challenge game.

When the time came, both teams took the playing field. Sara Mulcahy from Plainedge played on the boys' team to even up the players. The first half played well. Each team tried to put together a drive to earn that elusive goal.

Peter Badalamente led the charge, zipping between players - only to be halted by Plainedge's quick fullbacks and sure-handed goalie. But the Wolves returned the favor. Peter Thompson's quick bursts of speed were able to break up some close Plainedge drives. Jackson Weber continually hounded the ball until he, too, could return it up-field to the Wolves midfielders. Matthew Ward ("Mr. Never Let Them See You Sweat") had another great game as goalie. The stadium announcer shared in the excitement, saying, "And there's another great save!" By the end of the first half, the score remained 0-0.

In the second half, the teams not only switched sides, but also switched into overdrive. Both teams' ability and skills continued to shine. Sara Mulcahy didn't hold back. She continually gained control of the ball and passed it up to Brandon Veracka. Brandon repeatedly moved the ball up the field with lightening speed - only to be met by Toni Roulet, who was a formidable opponent. Thomas Esposito had three close scoring attempts: two strong left-foot kicks and a high curving corner kick that took everyone's breath away.

Finally, true to form, the Wolves' second-half play kicked in. With less a minute left in the game, Cody Chuchul stepped up to intercept a Plainedge pass. From just outside the 18-yard line, he let one rip into the goal's lower right corner. The Wolves were up 1-0. Then with seconds left on the clock, Thomas passed to a charging Brandon, who popped a shot just over the goalie's outstretched arms for a final score of 2-0.

When the clock ran out, the players lined up and shook hands with a cheerful outlook. Both teams played hard, never quit and did it with class.

Special thanks to Brian Mulcahy, the Plainedge coaching staff and the Plainedge team. To the Wolves - boys and parents - it has been a pleasure. Coach Pete.