In what was, by far, the most exciting game of the season, he Garden City Tornadoes defeated hometown rival, the Garden City Sharks, in a game that can only be described as spectacular!

On Saturday, Nov. 20, at the Garden City Pool Field, both teams came onto the field with a palpable anticipation.

The Tornado forward line of Katie Gardener, Janie Burke and Ann Kemen had some unbelievable breakaways and spirited drives up the field.

Amanda LeSueur, Kara Kelly, Katie Rose and Krystie Piscopo stopped repeated charges by the hungry Sharks, who were aided by the wind advantage.

Carrie Long, as sweeper, and Nicole Perrotta, as goalie, turned back all of the Sharks' persistent attacks. Long's all-enveloping defense and Perrotta's diving saves heightened the level of play.

Janine Lind, Krista Tenaglia, Kaitlin Hipworth and Brigid Moore showed spirit and perseverance. They contributed offensively with substantial strikes and a "never say die" defense.

Both teams were mobilized to give their all. The ball continually visited each goal's face and was then nerve-wrackingly returned with unassailable defenses. Lassitude was not an option! After an unrelenting display of heart and will, the score at the halftime whistle remained 0-0.

The friendship of the winds advantage was the Tornadoes in the second-half during which Amanda Russo had a beautiful sweeping shot on goal. Incredible pressure continued by the Sharks could not daunt Mary Clare Oakes as center halfback, Clare Hartigan's defense and Montse Caccamo as forward and halfback. They completed the Tornadoes offensive and defensive machine, each contributing careful passing, pressing and play development. Nicole Diller fired an indirect kick that managed to sneak into the goal with the help of Kemen giving the Tornadoes the lead at 1-0. Could they hold on to their lead? The two teams were so evenly matched, yet competitively driven, it could have gone either way.

After an exhausting second half the Tornadoes managed to hold on, giving them the win at 1-0.

All girls' sportsmanship was to be commended. After the game the teams congratulated each other on a game that was thrilling, well played and extremely enjoyable to watch. With the attitude of "friends first," the teams look forward to seeing each other in school and enjoying each other's company.

The Tornadoes would like to thank their coaches: Gerry Oakes, Buddy Gardner and Mike Hartigan, skills coaches Keith and Paul, supportive parents, siblings, and their worthy opponents, the Sharks.

The Shark girls are Kate Dushaj; Marissa McCay; Jen Ryniker, Brittany Shannon, Laura Norcini, Megan McCay, Janna Ryder; Kelsey Winchruch; Caitlin Monaghan; Lauren Cassel; Tracy Ridgway; Stephanie Mangels; Christine Derlath; Christine LiCalzi; Emily Wenzel; Erin O'Brien; Michaela Manning; and Alison Damiano. Stay posted for the spring "Tornado Watch." It's sure to be unseasonably sensational. Go, Tornadoes, Go!