Plainview, NY (June 12, 2010) – The Long Island Rough Riders Men continued their undefeated stretch at home this season, with a 1-0 victory over the Western Mass Pioneers.  The Rough Riders recorded their third shut out of the season in a combined effort between Goalkeepers Billy Gatti and Alex Naples.

Goalkeeper Billy Gatti made four saves within the first 30 minutes before receiving a red card.  In the 33rd minute Gatti came out of the 18-yard box and was called for a hand ball, resulting in an immediate ejection.  He was replaced by backup goalkeeper and newcomer Alex Naples.  Naples, a Long Island Native, is currently attending St. John’s University and graduated from St. Anthony’s High School. 

“This was a tough break for us so early in the match,” said Rough Riders Goalkeeper Billy Gatti.  “I was very frustrated with myself, but Naples came in and stepped up for us.”

The Rough Riders were playing down a man, due to Gatti’s red card, until the second half.  The Pioneer’s Midfielder Anthony Augustine received his second yellow card and was ejected in the 55th minute. 

Both teams had several opportunities to take the lead throughout the game.  It wasn’t until the 75th minute when the Rough Riders finally broke through.  Rhett Bernstein’s header off a corner kick was deflected by a Pioneer’s defender, which opened up a scoring opportunity for Ben Arikian.  He knocked down the loose ball and scored from 16 yards out, to give the Rough Riders a 1-0 advantage, a lead they would not relinquish.

“We missed some opportunities early in the game,” said Head Coach Paul Roderick.  “Our defense stepped up after we were down a man, and we were able to take advantage of a late scoring opportunity.”

Alex Naples, who is very familiar with Cy Donnelly Stadium, recorded three saves in 57 minutes during his Rough Riders debut.  “It was very exciting to play my first match with the Rough Riders at St. Anthony’s,” said Rough Riders keeper Alex Naples. 

The Rough Riders are leading their division with 14 points and a 4-0-2 record.  The Men will be hosting the NY Pancyprian Freedoms in the opening round of the U.S. Open Cup on Tuesday June 15th at 7:30 PM at Cy Donnelly Stadium.  They will play their next league match this Saturday June 19th against the MPS Portland Phoenix (2-0-3).

Article by Brian Patak