Football: West Islip downs Riverhead in hard-fought playoff game, 14-6

The first round of the playoffs always has its share of surprises. No. 6 Riverhead wasn’t supposed to compete to the level of No. 3 West Islip. The rankings are there for good reason.

But the rankings didn’t matter to the Blue Waves as they came to play at West Islip High School on Saturday afternoon. Though the offense had trouble moving the ball, the defense came up with huge stops, forcing punts over and over again.

The game was 0-0 at halftime and it wasn’t until a muffed punt late in the game leading to great field position when the Lions (7-3) got on the board after a 2-yard Connor Smith QB sneak.

Tristan Falisi connected with Ryun Moore shortly thereafter for a touchdown to all but tie the game at 7-7. Unfortunately, the point after was blocked to the delight of the big home crowd.

With four minutes remaining, West Islip’s Mike Lombardi bulldozed through the defensive front of Riverhead for the decisive score of the game.

“We came to play,” head coach Leif Shay said. “We don’t back down from anybody.”

Riverhead (4-5) didn’t give up. They drove the ball down into West Islip territory in hopes of getting a chance to tie the game. Moore was the featured receiver and was the recipient of two plays that brought them deep down the field.

“When Ryun gives effort, he can become the best player on the field,” Shay said.

Falisi then tried to hit Moore again on the slant but the pass was a little high. He got his  fingertips on the ball and before he could haul it in, the defender grabbed Moore’s face mask, sending the ball straight in the air and into another defenders arms. The face mask call was missed and the Lions came away with the victory, 14-6.

“We improved a lot since the beginning of the season,” Shay said. “I told the kids I’m proud and they are Riverhead football players and that’s a mantra that takes a lot of effort, handwork and pride.”

RiverheadLOCAL photos by George Faella