Lynnfield (9-3-1) plays Triton, Masco next

Published in the February 7, 2018 edition

By STEPHEN MARTELLUCCI

NEWBURYPORT — The Lynnfield High boys’ hockey team was shutout by host Newburyport last Saturday afternoon at Graf Rink. With that defeat, the Pioneers fell to 9-3-1 overall and 5-2-1 in the Cape Ann League.

The Clippers were able to improve to 10-1-5 overall and 8-0-2 in the CAL as they completed the season sweep and are now on the brink of winning the league title.

“I am not into moral victories,” said Pioneers head coach Jon Gardner. “We played tight with them both times and it was a one-goal game heading into the final minute of both games.”

JARET SIMPSON (4) played excellent defense for the Pioneers during their close loss to Newburyport on Saturday. Lynnfield only gave up one goal until a last chance empty-netter gave the state’s #12-ranked Clippers a 2-0 victory. (Dan Pawlowski Photo)

After a scoreless first period, the Clippers got on the board when a shot by Cole Spence hit goalie Aidan Kelly’s left pad and snuck over the goal line 1:30 into the second.

Late in the third, Kelly was pulled for the extra attacker but Owen Bradbury scored on the empty net to close the door.

“Because of a penalty that was called against us, we had to wait to pull Aidan,” pointed out Gardner.

The Clippers outshot the Pioneers on net, 24-14, as Kelly made 22 saves.

“I was very happy with the solid play of our defense,” said Gardner.

Gardner pointed out the play of Jaret Simpson and Joey Mack.

On Thursday, Feb. 7 the Pioneers go back to the Graf Rink to take on host Triton at 7 p.m. The schools tied, 2-2, in the first meeting back on Jan. 13.

This Saturday afternoon at 3:55 p.m. the Pioneers visit Masconomet. That game will take place at the Valley Forum in Haverhill. Lynnfield won the first match-up, 4-1, on Jan. 20 as they go for the season sweep against the Chieftains.

On Tuesday, Feb. 13, Lynnfield takes on host North Reading at Kasabuski Rink in Saugus. Face-off for that game is at 7:10 p.m. On Dec. 30, the Pioneers won the first meeting 1-0 at home.