Lizama Scores Twice as Coach Pagano Records 200th Win

Bryan Lizama scored two goals and the Blue Devil defense was rock solid as the Huntington varsity boys’ soccer team topped Central Islip in the season-opener for both schools, 2-0.

Lizama scored a first half goal off an assist from Edwin Marroquin and then drilled a shot past the goalie a second time to put Huntington safely in the second half. Blue Devil goalies Dylan Hayden and Nick Plachta combined for three saves to record the shutout.

The victory was a special one to Huntington head coach John Pagano, who is in his 23rd season with the Blue Devils. It was the 200th win of the veteran sideline mentor’s career. The squad celebrated the milestone with a special cake that all enjoyed.

The Blue Devils are captained by Lizama, Marroquin, Dante Salgado and Jerson Contreras. Pagano is assisted Jason Suarez. Jose Alfaro coaches the JV team. The victory over Central Islip improved Pagano’s lifetime record to 200-152-31.

Newsday named Lizama as one of its Top 100 players this fall. “I feel humbly honored to be selected to be a part of these great players,” the senior said. “It’s something not everyone can be a part, which is why I’m very excited and honored to be named to Newsday’s Top 100.”

The teenager is a fine student in the classroom, too. “As a first generation son, my interests are to attend a good school that can offer me both a great academic program and athletic program,” Lizama said. “Going to school is an opportunity, which my parents didn’t have, so it’s something I’m grateful for.”