The Mineola Chief's 7-year-olds got defensive and shut out the East Rockaway Raiders 12-0 this past Sunday morning.

The team started the first half on offense, with a strong 50-yard drive, featuring key runs by running backs Ryan Eccher, Michael Patalano, Teddy Capsis, and Andrew Cunningham. On the final play of the drive, quarterback Thomas O'Connell handed the ball off to Anthony Preston for an exciting 20-yard sweep and touchdown.

The Mineola defense dominated the Raiders' offense all day long, not giving up any first downs and only crossing midfield once all day. In the first half the Raiders were stuck third and long when they tried a pass play. The defense was in the face of the Raiders' quarterback as he released the ball, then linebacker Michael Patalano zeroed in on the floating pigskin. Patalano intercepted the pass and ran it back 25 yards for a touchdown. The defensive line was spectacular, led by Jonathan Igoe, Kyle Spruill, and Capsis. The linebackers, led by Brian Smith, O'Connell, Cunningham and Patalano, were dominant over the Raiders as they attacked the ball with reckless abandon.

On a key second half defensive stance, the Chiefs had the Raiders' fourth and one as they tried to power the ball up the middle. Dennis Gannon stepped up into the hole and stopped the running back cold for a one-yard loss and a turnover on downs. Game over.

The Mineola Chiefs 7-year-old team now have a record of 3-1. All the boys played and participated in the victory. The boys showed great character and sportsmanship on the field of battle.