Newsday's top 10 high school girls soccer team rankings
South Side players huddle before the start of a non-league girls soccer game against Kellenberg on Thursday in Rockville Centre. Credit: Joe Orovitz
1. Oceanside (7–1-1)
The Sailors, who last year made it to the state Class AAA semifinals, are off to a great start. They are one of the best defensive teams on Long Island and have allowed just one goal this season. They've defeated South Side, Port Washington, Seaford, and tied with Garden City.
2. South Side (9-1)
The reigning Nassau Class AA champions haven't missed a beat this season. Viv Haley and Valentina Marquardt anchor one of Long Island's top defenses, as the team has allowed just one goal. Their only loss came against Oceanside.
3. West Islip (10-0)
The reigning back-to-back Long Island Class AA champions have picked up where they left off. They have allowed just two goals this season and have key wins over Smithtown East and Northport.
4. Connetquot (10-0-1)
One of the surprise teams on Long Island, Connetquot started the season with a win over reigning state champion Commack and hasn't looked back. Leigha Mackin has eight goals to lead an offense that has been firing on all cylinders.
5. Garden City (6-1-4)
The Trojans' only loss was against South Side in the first game of the season. Madeleine Patrickakos has been anchoring a defense that has allowed only three goals.
6. Plainedge (8-0-2)
The Red Devils, who last year made the county finals, have started strong. Allison Younghans has taken another step as an attacking midfielder, increasing her goal output while still being a precise passer.
7. Ward Melville (7-0-1)
The Patriots held a Long Island public schools girls soccer record with 64 straight wins until last year. With coach Mark Nash taking over the program, they look to remain a threat in Suffolk I. The offense is led by Aliya Leonard, her younger sister Jada, and Alexandra Justiniano.
8. St. Anthony's (3-2-3)
The Friars are off to a great start after their CHSAA state championship appearance. They are missing key pieces due to injury, but they were able to pick up a key victory over Northport and tied with Kellenberg.
9. Commack (7-1-1)
The reigning state Class AAA champion lost its opener to Connetquot, 1-0, but the Cougars have defeated teams convincingly since then. Breanna Mender has been dominant with 14 goals.
10. Mount Sinai (9-0)
The Mustangs are undefeated and a key contributor to their success is Alexa Cergol. She has 13 goals, including the go-ahead score against Bayport-Blue Point. She also has eight assists. Chloe Xerri has contributed 11 assists.
On the cusp: Harborfields, Smithtown East, Northport, Sayville, Kellenberg
Jonathan Ruban covers high school sports for Newsday after graduating from St. John’s.
