Playoff Preview: Lynbrook Versus South Side

The last time Lynbrook and South Side matched up against each other — a non-league game in early April — a then-sleeping Cyclones offense awoke to score over a dozen goals in a .

But what a difference a month and a half makes.

Lynbrook, riding a five-game winning streak, takes a 9-6 record into tonight's quarterfinal against its cross-town rival, which has a record of 10-5.

South Side made quick work of its first-round opponent last Thursday, an 11-3 victory over Wheatley/Carle Place. Lynbrook defeated Great Neck South, 12-5.

The Cyclones bring a potent offense into tonight's match-up, averaging 11 goals a game since struggling in back-to-back contests versus powerhouses Garden City and Wantagh earlier this month.

But South Side will have a tough go against Lynbrook's defensive core, which has allowed just 19 goals in the past five games. The Owls will also look to get their transition game going, which it implemented to near perfection in last week's victory over Great Neck South.

Here are some players to watch in tonight's game:

LYNBROOK

Luke Spitzer — Use the force, Luke. Perhaps he does, because Lynbrook's star midfielder seems to find the net from almost anywhere. His size makes it difficult for defenders to slow him down and he also has a wicked shot. Look for Spitzer to have a big game tonight.

Ethan Mirenberg — After splitting time between Mirenberg and his back-up goaltender, coach Bill Leighley decided to go with Mirenberg as his full-time starter. Though the Owls have won several games by large margins this season, it is often Mirenberg making big saves to keep his team on top. No. 5 will need to be excellent for Lynbrook to have a chance tonight.

Anthony Rainone/Steven Marrandino — Lynbrook's two starting attack-men are always a threat when they're on the field. The speedy pair are a key part of the Owls' fast-paced transition game — look for them to give the Cyclones' defense a tough time. Rainone, who scored four goals in last week's victory over Great Neck South, is a sniper, and Lynbrook will need him to take lots of shots tonight. Marrandino is a great playmaker, helping to set up his fellow attack-men and midfielders.
SOUTH SIDE

Bryan Gerrato  — The senior midfielder is deadly around the net. With a combination of speed and agility, Gerrato can score from anywhere on the field. He's averaged nearly a hat trick per game. He'll play Div. I lacrosse at Navy this fall.

Dominic Moriarty — The former all-county goalie plays the position a tad unorthodox, but head coach Steve DiPietro says he "stands on his head" in goal and has the mobility to shut down any offense.

Patrick Finnerty/Zach Scaduto — The two upper classmen both had hat tricks in the first-round of the playoffs in Thursday's win over Wheatley, and last time Lynbrook played South Side, Scaduto poured in five goals. If Gerrato can't find an opening, these two sharpshooters can easily fill the void.

Game time is 6:30 p.m. at Hofstra University. Be sure to visit Lynbrook Patch tomorrow for results.