Underdogs Miller Place pulled off a huge upset over the Comsewogue Warriors in a 9-7 semifinal victory. Miller Place entered the Suffolk Class B playoffs as the fifth seed. Comsewogue, on the other hand, claimed the top seed of the playoffs.
Both teams jumped out to a good start in a 4-2 first quarter in favor of the Panthers. In an even second quarter, the Panthers and the Warriors each netted a goal to bring the game to a 5-3 half.
The Warriors started the third quarter quickly, scoring two early goals to tie the game at five. Miller Place managed to find the net once before the end of the quarter. Then, the Panthers opened the final period with three quick goals. With 10:45 left in the game, the Panthers took a 9-5 lead. The Warriors tried to battle back, but Miller Place’s lead proved to be too large with only two goals coming from the trailing Comsewogue squad.
Miller Place displayed great offensive talent with four players scoring two goals: Liam Walsh, Ryan Callahan, Steven Liantonio, and Jake Buonaiuto. Along with that, James Nielsen marked a goal and five assists. Senior goalie Matt Liantonio recorded a career high 19 saves in the victory.
Now the Panthers face second seed Huntington in the championship game on Wednesday May 29 at 5pm. Earlier this year, Miller Place lost to Huntington 7-4. After Thursday’s game, the Panthers proved that they can pull of major upsets, and on Wednesday, they will be looking to do so again.
