Thursday, March 15, 2012

MONARCHS WIN GAME ONE IN OT

Press Release

Marlboro, MA- Steve Miller scored 2:24 into overtime to lead the New Hampshire Jr. Monarchs a 3-2 win over the Jersey Hitmen in the first game of the 2012 EJHL Dineen Cup Championship series.

Both teams flew out of the gate, keeping goaltenders Zach Andrews and Adam Miller on their toes during the first period. Despite the back-and-forth action, the goaltenders kept the teams scoreless thanks to many spectacular saves.

The Monarchs drew first blood 12:06 into the second period when Connor Gorman sent the puck to Mike Jamieson along the boards. Jamieson shot, but Hitmen goaltender Adam Miller lost the puck and Steve Miller jammed it in.

Jason Stephanik tied the game with a power play goal when he ripped a shot past Andrews from the right circle with 4:26 on the clock. Denton King and Jesse Petito assisted on the play.

Gorman put the Monarchs back in front when he scored 11:57 into the third period after taking a pass from Steve Miller and streaking down the right wing.

Tim Clifton tied the game with a power play goal with 3:37 to play. Andrew Black passed to Jack Riley at the bottom of the circle, and Riley send the puck across the slot to Clifton, who banged it home and sent the game to overtime.

In the extra session, the Hitmen put two shots on Andrews, who proved equal to the task. Steve Miller netted his second of the game when he scored from Gorman and Daniel Avellanet 2:24 into the frame. Adam Miller finished the game with 29 saves and Andrews turned away 24 for the Monarchs.

The teams will meet again at the New England Sports Center at 5:00 PM. If necessary, a deciding game will be played on Friday at 2:20 PM.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

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