Without the services of quarterback Patrick Brown, linebacker-runningback Tevin Carlo and wingback-defensiveback Chris Comito, the Mineola PAL Chiefs 10-year-olds (3-0) traveled to Hicksville for a showdown battle with the Hicksville Crusaders (2-0) for a showdown battle at the brand new Andrews Field.

After a scoreless first quarter in which the Chiefs' defense, sparked by Alex Gionvannelli, Andres Blandon and team captain Anthony Fassino, held the Crusaders' high scoring offensive off the board. Mineola, led by backup quarterback Bobby Dwyer and runningback Brian Gaffney, put on a 72 yard march which was highlighted by a 44-yard pass play from Gaffney to halfback Paul Reo that placed the ball at the Hicksville 4. This drive was stalled by two penalties and a fumble and time ran out in the half.

As the third quarter began, Mineola finally got on the board. With solid running by Dwyer, Gaffney, Reo, Fassino and Kenny Urick, the Chiefs got to the Hicksville 5. From that point Brian Gaffney made his most important run of the season by driving off left tackle for the game's only touchdown.

Mineola's fantastic defense, led by Andres Blaydon, Mike Montello, Cody Omage, Alex Gionvannelli and Adrian Kwan, held the Crusaders at bay for the rest of the game.

A big key play in the contest was Kwan's 25-yard interception return which ended all hope of a Hicksville victory.

Other Chiefs' standouts were Joey Aroucho, James Brodie, Christian Trasolini, Bobby Rodgers, Sean doherty, Nicky Dafquard, Joe Fornataro, Greg Hoerter, Shaw Khalillah, Bobby Lenny, James Lopez, Chris Rivera, Brendan Philbin, John deMarco, Tony Caruso, Brendan Mallon, and John "the Rabbit" Mulvey.

The Chiefs now enter their bye week with an overall record of 4-0. The next game will be on Sunday, Oct. 16, at Newbridge Road Park in Bellmore.