CLIFTON - Two missed attempts at the start of the penalty-kick shootout were enough to make some observers believe this might be the year the Clifton boys soccer team could beat its greatest rival, Kearny.

The Mustangs had outplayed the Kardinals for the better part of 100 minutes, but still couldn't vanquish the team that has owned them for a decade. They were in perfect position, with a chance to lead by two kicks after two rounds, but they still couldn't avoid an ending that has become all too familiar.