Original publication: July 1, 2006)

HAVERSTRAW — Sometimes it doesn't matter how well you play. If you make one mistake, it can cost you the game.

In an outstanding pitchers' duel, Suffern's Justin Guzman came out on top to lead the Athletics past Pearl River 1-0 in yesterday's quarterfinals of the 46th annual Journal News Little League Tournament of Champions.

Suffern won despite the fact that Michael Vinci of the Red Sox threw a no-hitter. The Red Sox themselves were able to scratch only three hits together, two of them coming in the first inning.

Guzman went five innings, striking out five and allowing only the three hits. Dominick Kulbaba came on in the sixth and struck out two for the save.

"They were a good team," Guzman said. "I just pitched my game."

The decisive play came in the bottom of the second when Nick Kulbaba, Dominick's brother, scored on a throwing error.

Robbie Cella's grounder was fielded at third base, but the ensuing throw went over the first baseman's head, allowing Kulbaba, who started the play on second, to score.

Neither team was able to muster much offense from there. Guzman held the lead, holding the Red Sox to only one hit over his final four innings.

"(Guzman) shut them down, which is what we needed because we just couldn't get any hits today," Suffern coach Seth Singer said. "(Vinci) is a very good pitcher."

Despite Vinci's tremendous effort, the Red Sox are out of the tournament. Vinci ended the day striking out six while walking two. He also had one of Pearl River's three hits.

"He's pitched great all year," Pearl River coach John Considine said of Vinci. "It is just a shame that we couldn't get the win."

The Athletics moved on to face Haverstraw, which defeated New City National, in today's semifinals. The game will be at noon at Leo Laders Post 130 American Legion Field in Haverstraw.

"(Suffern) played great. I would say they are the favorite to win the whole thing," Considine said.

Proceeds from the tournament benefit Jawonio in New City, which is affiliated with the New York State Cerebral Palsy Association