The boys j.v. hockey team started their 2018-2019 campaign with a solid win over our hilltop neighbor Eaglebrook. Going into the game the team was without several key players due to injury and health. A shortened lineup proved to be just the early season incentive for the veterans and newcomers both to raise their games. Eaglebrook always presents a challenge with their skilled players and this year would be no different. For three periods our play was consistent and we were able to stay ahead for most of today’s game.
Midway through period one Matt Shea scored the first goal of the season banging home a loose puck in a scramble in the front of Eaglebrook’s net.
The equalizer came moments later when we had a man in the box. With under a minute to go freshman Will Lodge slipped a puck past their goalie giving us a 2-1 lead after one period.
Period 2 was scoreless. Our goaltender Lawrence von Steuben played very well in net keeping numerous Eaglebrook opportunities shut down. He would eventually earn the season’s first game puck for his play today!
Period three was all Deerfield. Maybe our skating is already paying off! Will Dale opened the scoring with a nifty shot from the left circle catching the goalie off guard. Eaglebrook would not quit and they worked hard to score again and close the gap to 3-2. This is when our team went on a 3-0 tear sealing the game midway through the third period. Senior Andy Han scored his first goal of the season off a pass from linemate Gabe Moos. Freshman Will Lodge would score his 2nd and 3rd goals on the afternoon to seal the victory at 6-2.
We did lots of things well today. The defensive unit of Strait, Aidan Philie, Gustafson, Darling and Scharfenberger logged many miles this afternoon and collectively they helped von Steuben with their steady play.
Our biggest surprise of the day came from our “newbie” line of Lodge, Shanahan, and King. All three playing in their first Deerfield game showed poise, tenacity, and composure. Look for more from this group as the season gets rolling.
Next up will be a two-game weekend after a day o& practice. Friday we will face the JV team from Pope Francis high School, and Saturday we face off with Choate. Both days will be great contest.