On February 19, Boys Varsity Hockey defeated Williston 6-2.
Forwards Brendan O’Connell, Andrew Hadley, and Mathieu Vignault started alongside defensemen Henry Bishop and Justin Marler, who protected goaltender Nick Scarpa. The 80s Night crowd was rowdy, and Deerfield appeared immediately dominant. Thomas Dale had a solid shot, Joey Manown skated well, and Courtney Morgan took set up a good chance. With 10:15 remaining in the first period, freshman Michael Holland scored. Afterwards, Scarpa made a couple of strong saves, but Deerfield continued to threaten, and Holland converted again at 1:43.
Williston came out reinvigorated and scored 26 seconds into the second period. Deerfield refused to back down, however, as Hadley made several key passes, and Wiggle Kerbrat created promising chances. At 10:30, O’Connell scored off a great Vignault pass in front of net. And although Williston began a power play at 5:04, Deerfield retained a two-goal lead until the final break.
Both teams had several power plays during a rough third period. Deerfield remained in control, as Scarpa made impressive saves, John Barry batted the puck for an unusual clear, and Marler skated well. At 5:59, Hadley scored. Williston responded with a goal with 3 minutes and 35 seconds, but Thomas Dale netted another for Deerfield at 2:02. The crowd exploded as Holland earned a hat trick at 1:04, solidifying a phenomenal win.
-Brooke Horowitch ’16