Wantagh Stays Unbeaten with Statement Win over Port Washington

Two unbeaten teams met under the lights on Friday night in Port Washington, as the 3-0 Wantagh Warriors took on the 3-0 Vikings in a highly anticipated early-season clash. Wantagh came in with something to prove, looking to show they could hang with and dominate a larger Class 'A' program. The Warriors didn't just prove it - they made a statement, winning 12-6 on the road.   From the opening whistle, Wantagh's high-powered offense was on full display, led by the dynamic Martini brothers — Dylan, an Army commit, and freshman Luke — along with Villanova-bound junior attackman [player_tooltip player_id='17760' first='Devin' last='Paccione']. The trio wasted no time in setting the tone, combining for highlight-reel plays that left the Port Washington defense scrambling.   One such moment came in the first quarter: [player_tooltip player_id='21373' first='Dylan' last='Martini'] forced a turnover on the ride and quickly launched a pinpoint pass to Paccione, who delivered a slick behind-the-back feed to a cutting [player_tooltip player_id='126935' first='Luke' last='Martini'], who finished with a stylish twister. It was a sequence that summed up the game: Wantagh was quicker, sharper, and more dangerous all over the field.   Wantagh's offensive depth was also on display, with [player_tooltip player_id='82355' first='Joe' last='Nicholson'] (Villanova) and [player_tooltip player_id='42657' first='Carter' last='Loughman'] (UAlbany) both contributing to the scoring. Despite Port Washington winning the majority of face-offs behind the efforts of juniors Dylan Freeman and Marvin Griffin, the Vikings couldn't convert the extra possessions into quality scoring chances.   Port Washington did have some bright moments. Senior Tommy McCarville (USMMA commit) scored on a step-down shot and later assisted Will Ahumity, while midfielder Jacob Apat consistently created offensive opportunities, though he couldn't capitalize on his looks.   One of the most impressive performances of the night came from Wantagh's first-year starting goalie, [player_tooltip player_id='42137' first='Gianni' last='Passaro'], who made a string of acrobatic saves and served as the backbone of an active, disruptive defense. On the other side, Port sophomore goalie [player_tooltip player_id='123641' first='Max' last='Eynon'] also turned in a strong performance, especially impressive considering the Vikings were missing two starting defensemen.   Though Port Washington ultimately fell short, the program is clearly trending upward under new head coach Glenn Lavey. If the Vikings can get healthy and continue to grow, they could be a factor in the Nassau Conference A race.      Dylan was the motor behind Wantagh's explosive offense. He set the tone with relentless riding, including a key caused turnover that sparked a highlight play. His leadership and quick decision making were on full display all game, and his combination of hustle and skill makes him one of the county's top seniors. Dylan finished with two goals and two assists for the game.     Despite being a freshman, Luke played like a veteran. He finished the play of the night with a twister goal and showed off high-level finishing and cutting instincts. His chemistry with his brother and Paccione makes him a serious offensive threat moving forward. Luke finished with six goals and an assist.     Paccione's flair and vision were evident throughout, especially on his behind-the-back assist that showcased his creativity. His off-ball movement and passing ability make him a perfect fit in Wantagh's fluid, high-IQ offense. Paccione finished with three assists in the game.     In just his first season as the starter, the Mount St. Mary's commit was a brick wall in net. His quick hands and lefty stance gave Port Washington shooters fits, and he made several key stops to keep momentum on Wantagh's side. His emergence makes the Warriors even more dangerous heading into the heart of the season. Passaro finished with 22 saves and a 79% save percentage.       Committed to the United States Merchant Marine Academy, McCarvill was a bright spot for the Vikings, scoring a clean step-down goal and later assisting another. He continues to be a steady two-way contributor and one of the team's key leaders and top options on offense. McCarville had a goal and two assists in the game.

Two unbeaten teams met under the lights on Friday night in Port Washington, as the 3-0 Wantagh Warriors took on the 3-0 Vikings in a highly anticipated early-season clash. Wantagh came in with something to prove, looking to show they could hang with and dominate a larger Class 'A' program. The Warriors didn't just prove it - they made a statement, winning 12-6 on the road.