Boys Soccer: Three Tuckers named to all-state team

On the eve of their state Class B semifinal game, three Mattituck Tuckers were named to the New York State small schools boys soccer all-state team during opening ceremonies in Middletown on Friday night. 

Co-captains Paul Hayes and Kevin Williams were selected along with midfielder-forward Kaan Ilgin. They are all seniors. Hayes has primarily played center back and Williams, a midfielder, is the most versatile player on the team, being able to play in the back, midfield or up front.

It is believed to be the first time that three Mattituck boys players were named to the all-state team in the same season.

“I’m very proud to get three players on the all-state team. They worked hard at it,” coach Mat Litchhult said. “It’s great for them, great for our team. “

All three players enjoyed outstanding seasons for the five-time defending Suffolk County Class B championships.

Hayes, who has been lethal converting corner kicks into goals, has anchored the backline, Williams has scored several goals via his dangerous free kicks and set up teammates with his pin-point passes and Ilgin is a scoring threat and has set up teammates for goals as well.

The Tuckers (17-2) will vie for their third state title in Middletown, taking on Skaneateles (17-2-1; Section III) at 9:15 a.m. Saturday. The final is set for the Middletown High School Stadium at 10 a.m. Sunday. Skaneateles won the Class B state title in 2010.

Mattituck shared the state Class C crown in 1982 and the Class B title outright in 2003, the latter under Litchhult.