Unbeaten Valley Stream wins another close one

Valley Stream Central (7-0) is one of two undefeated teams remaining in Nassau, along with Mepham, remaining in Conference V, but the victories haven't come easy. Tonight's 16-14 overtime victory over Great Neck North had a familiar feel to it. It was the second overtime victory this season for the Eagles, who also have survived two one-goal affairs.

Today, VSC led 9-3 at halftime but Great Neck North (5-2) rallied, tying it at 12 on a goal from Molly Levy with 30 seconds remaining in regulation to force overtime. Samantha Saad scored 30 seconds into the first overtime to give VSC the lead for good. Saad scored two goals in overtime and Catherine Powell (four goals, one assist) and Lanyah Johnson also scored.

Big performances from Saad and Powell should be no surprise. They along with Nicole Riggio, Allie Troiano, Nicole Mercado and Stephanie Manta, make up the midfield connection that has been the key to the team's success.

Said coach Rafaela Doherty: "That's where we win our games."

This year, Valley Stream is in the running for Conference V's lone playoff berth, but last season finished below .500 in the same league. The difference is winning the close games like the team did today.

Said Doherty: "We had three games where we lost by one our two goals. We didn't have the mental toughness that we have this year."

As for this year's team, Doherty said: "They're great... I have the best group of girls ever."