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1inawesomewonder · 5 years

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Skate 3, Tyngsboro, MA – February 23, 2019:

Goffstown had clinched their place in the playoff seeding earlier in the week and the outcome on Saturday had no effect on their tournament placement. Then they were playing on the road against a team they beat 6-1 earlier in the season. Furthermore, the home team was battling to finish the regular season as high as 6th or as low as 8th. So, it could have been a game to take lightly. Or maybe they could show up way too casual and go into action lacking the discipline that has set this group apart from their competition all season. Goffstown had other ideas though and broke a 2-2 tie late in the 2nd period, scoring six goals in just more than 9 minutes to win going away, 8-3.

Colby Gamache looks for some space on the outside. (Photo by Charron)

A dear friend of Goffstown hockey, Al St. Louis sang the anthem as he does for many of the Alvirne-Milford Admiral home games, and his voice was a familiar sound for the Grizzlies. Goffstown improved to 14-6 over the last 4 years when Al sings the National Anthem before a Grizzlies hockey game.

The first period was a little bit odd for the visiting Grizzlies. They managed to control the play for the most part but that didn’t result in a lot of shots. Meanwhile, the Admirals were getting more shots and some good chances, just in far less elapsed time. Goffstown worked the puck and Alvirne-Milford counterpunched, looking for mistakes to capitalize upon.

Step right up! Get your tickets here! See Griffin Cook in action! (Photo by Charron)

Sebastian Beal for the Grizzlies battled for a loose puck in his offensive zone, won the puck, and let a wicked wrister go that beat Jackson Dowd in net for the Admirals, but the puck rattled off of the crossbar and over the net at 2:36. The Grizzlies killed off a powerplay when Isaac McGregor was whistled for a hooking call. Then Jacob Noonan made a seemingly innocent break out pass up the left wing boards to Colby Gamache. The pass, like a perfectly executed billiards assessment of speed and angles, found Gamache in stride speeding up the ice. Gamache finished the play with a beautiful goal to get the Grizzlies on the board at 11:45.

Chretien carries the puck, but yes, he sees you. (Photo by Charron)

Less than a minute later, Levi Griffin made a gorgeous long-distance breakout pass like a perfectly thrown deep ball from a great quarterback and Zac Girouard was off to the races. James Amorelli came out to cut the angle on the breakaway attempt and receded perfectly, making a brilliant right toe save to keep the score at 1-0. And the period would end with the score 1-0, and Goffstown trailing in shots, 12-7.

The Big E made an appearance at Skate 3 and for a few moments, nobody could see the sun. (Photo by Charron)

The second period largely belonged to the Grizzlies but that’s not how the scoreboard felt about it. Alvirne-Milford scored first, at 4:10 on a shot that Amorelli probably wishes he had back. Damien Barahona scored from a nearly impossible angle, below the rightwing faceoff dot. The goal was assisted by Levi Griffin. The game was tied 1-1. The Admirals took a slashing penalty at 4:53 and by 5:10 of the period, the Grizzlies had the lead again. Sebastian Beal and Colin Burke worked the puck around the zone

Excuse me while I take this shortcut I know. (Photo by Charron)

like it belonged to them before the puck was on Colby Gamache’s stick, in tight. Gamache using his skilled hands lifted a backhand shot over the shoulder of Dowd in goal, landing up where momma hides the creamy peanut butter. At 6:02 Barahona got caught with his stick up around the throat of Griffin Cook and the Grizzlies went back on the powerplay. Grady Chretien pinged the crossbar with a shot but the Admirals held the score at 2-1. Then at 8:13 Alvirne-Milford tied the game at 2-2. Jacob Noonan turned the puck over and the speedy Isaac Rogers broke in all alone. Amorelli made a sensational save on Rogers but Bobby Pace was right there to clean up the mess and put the puck in the net. Game tied 2-2, with less than half a game left.

James Amorelli made 26 saves to earn his 3rd career victory for the Grizzlies. (Photo by Charron)

They say that triangles are the strongest shape structurally. And if a team of hockey players ever needed something strong to lean on, it might be something like Goffstown’s version of the CBC Line last year, and the CBC 2.0 Line this year. At 10:15 of the second period, Griffin Cook scored on a pass from Sebastian Beal who had taken a pass from Colby Gamache. Not only that, the passes pretty near formed a triangle of angled passes leading to Cook scoring from point-blank range. Then, not to be left out, Grady Chretien scored a simply gorgeous bar-down goal just 7 seconds later to give the Grizzlies a 4-2 lead. Goffstown’s Eric DesRuisseaux was called for high-sticking moments later but the Grizzlies killed the penalty without further damage. At 14:48 of the period an ugly scene played out in front of the Alvirne-Milford bench. Penalties were called and a disqualification resulted. It was a brutal scene; one that I have seen too many of this season. And equally remarkable, if not truly sad, one of the only one of these irresponsible fits of brutality that I have seen called this season.

Theo Milianes, Isaac McGregor, and Luke Chase will all be back for the Grizzlies next season. (Photo by Charron)

As a result of the penalties at the end of the 2nd period, the final period started with some 4-on-4 play for 1:48. Griffin Cook scored an unassisted goal at 1:35 to open up a 3-goal lead for the Grizzlies. Then Goffstown salted away the game with 3 powerplay goals in a span of 2:34. Colby Wright got his first career goal on a gorgeous feed from Grady Chretien, finding Wright on the doorstep for the tap in. Then Colin Burke snagged a goal that was set up by Chretien and Gamache. Finally, Luke Ouellette scored on a splendid redirect of a perfect pass from Theo Milianes at 4:36. Zach Partridge took over in goal for Alvirne-Milford and made one save on the one shot he faced. Goffstown then took three penalties of their own which gave the momentum back to the Admirals but the spread was too wide. Levi Griffin scored a powerplay goal at 12:43 on a pass from Jake Natola. That was about it. Goffstown won it, 8-3, and led in shots 33-29.

With Colin’s length and reach he actually took one shift in Tyngsboro and Nashua at the same time. (Photo by Charron)

If my abacus is correct and my Viking sunstone is accurate, Alvirne-Milford will play host to Oyster River on Wednesday, February 27th.

Goffstown will host a quarterfinal playoff game on Saturday, March 2nd, at 7:00 PM. It looks like the Grizzlies will play Merrimack in that quarterfinal matchup. The teams split a pair of decisions in the regular season.

Isaac McGregor leads a charge up ice at Alvirne-Milford. (Photo by Charron)

Grady Chretien lifts a shot up under the crossbar for his 25th goal of the year. (Sage photo)

Defense comes in all shapes and sizes, with Eric DesRuisseaux and Colin Burke. (Photo by Charron)

Stephen Provencher is a leader, as seen here, other players try to copy his every move. (Photo by Charron)

Sebastian Beal played with his normal drive and determination and had a pair of assists in the win. (Photo by Charron)

Devin Cote did some fine work on the penalty kill at Alvirne-Milford. (Photo by Charron)

Luke Ouellette got his 4th goal of the year on this play. (Photo by Charron)

Griffin scores one of his two goals against the Admirals. (Photo by Charron)

James might have been crouching but he wasn’t hiding from the spotlight, making some tremendous saves in the 8-3 win. (Photo by Charron)

Theo Milianes has been showing signs that he’s clicking again with his line. (Photo by Charron)

Jacob Noonan has been solid on defense this season. He’s a + nearly every night. (Photo by Charron)

These two came together and said something like, “The camera is right there. Where is Griffin for this photo opp? (Photo by Charron)

Bobby Pace approached Jacob Noonan and said, “I’ll be your 22.” A thoughtful gesture as Jake’s D partner #22 Brett Lassonde sat out the action. (Photo by Charron)

Luke Chase rounds the net for the Grizzlies against the Admirals. (Photo by Charron)

Colby Wright creates space for himself. He scored his first career goal in the win. (Photo by Charron)

NHIAA Hockey: Updated Records: Goffstown (14-3-1) Alvirne-Milford (8-8-2)

Skate 3, Tyngsboro, MA February 23, 2019. 1:30 PM Start:

Summary:

Goals:

Goffstown: 1-3-4 = 8 Alvirne-Milford: 0-2-1 = 3

Shots:

Goffstown: 07-18-08 = 33 Alvirne-Milford: 12-08-09 = 29

Scoring:

1st Goffstown at 11:45. Even. Colby Gamache (20) from Jacob Noonan (9).

2nd Alvirne-Milford at 4:10. Even. Damien Barahona from Levi Griffin.

2nd Goffstown at 5:10. PPG. Colby Gamache (21) from Colin Burke (15) and Sebastian Beal (30).

2nd Alvirne-Milford at 8:13. Even. Bobby Pace from Isaac Rogers.

2nd Goffstown at 10:15. Even. Griffin Cook (27) from Sebastian Beal (31) and Colby Gamache (27).

2nd Goffstown at 10:22. Even. Grady Chretien (25) unassisted.

3rd Goffstown at 1:35. 4 on 4. Griffin Cook (28) unassisted.

3rd Goffstown at 2:02. PPG. Colby Wright (1) from Grady Chretien (10).

3rd Goffstown at 4:08. PPG. Colin Burke (12) from Grady Chretien (11) and Colby Gamache (28).

3rd Goffstown at 4:36. PPG. Luke Ouellette (4) from Theo Milianes (4).

3rd Alvirne-Milford at 12:43. PPG. Levi Griffin from Jake Natola.

Penalties:Goffstown:

McGregor 2:00 Hook

DesRuisseaux 2:00 High Stick

Burke 2:00 Hold

Gamache 2:00 Hold

Provencher 2:00 Cross Check

McGregor 2:00 Interference

Alvirne-Milford:

Sullivan 2:00 Slash

Barahona 2:00 High Stick

Rogers 5:00 Checking from Behind

Rogers 10:00 Game misconduct DQ

Special Teams:

Goffstown Power Play: 4 for 5. Alvirne-Milford Power Play: 1 for 5.

Saves: Goffstown: James Amorelli 26 of 29. (45:00)

Alvirne-Milford: Jackson Dowd 24 of 32. (34:26)

Alvirne-Milford: Zach Partridge 1 of 1 (10:24)

Hockey: Goffstown 8 at Alvirne-Milford 3 Skate 3, Tyngsboro, MA - February 23, 2019: Goffstown had clinched their place in the playoff seeding earlier in the week and the outcome on Saturday had no effect on their tournament placement.

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1inawesomewonder · 5 years

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Hockey: Goffstown 3 at John Stark-Hopkinton 1

From Lee Clement Arena, New England College, Henniker, NH – February 19, 2019:

The atmosphere was festive and felt like a big playoff game on the snowy campus of New England College. The old rink was packed with fans of both schools as well as players and fans of hockey teams from other area school districts. There was no place to park anywhere near the rink. Nor was there any place to walk except…

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1inawesomewonder · 5 years

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Hockey: Goffstown 5 vs. Oyster River 4 (OT)

From Sullivan Arena, St. Anselm College, Goffstown, NH – February 16, 2019:

A senior, defense first, defenseman, Jacob Noonan, saw an opportunity and he made the most of it. As he made a beeline to the net with carrying the puck, the balance of the game was on his stick. Noonan ripped a shot that Colin Clark saved but the rebound landed in the crease. Somehow Clark also held his line and made a…

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1inawesomewonder · 5 years

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Hockey: Goffstown 9 at Winnacunnet 0

Late on Wednesday night from Phillips Exeter Academy in Exeter, NH – February 13, 2019:

By the time the game started the other night, it almost seemed like an afterthought. There was no public address announcing. There was a surprise playing of the National Anthem (we did stand and honor the playing of it). There were no starting lineups announced. Then finally, the puck dropped at 9 pm. Given all…

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1inawesomewonder · 5 years

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From Sullivan Arena in Goffstown, NH – February 10, 2019:

It’s always nice to win on Senior Night but to beat an exceptional team, the defending champions of the league you play in, in a great game on your home ice. Well, that is something beyond special. Goffstown outlasted Keene 4-3 on a night where the senior’s effort was the theme throughout.

Before I get to the game, I have to make an attempt at thanks, at showing gratitude and hoping I don’t leave anyone out from the humble observations that I make in a given space. I catch a lot, but I miss even more.

I wish the ceremonies could be seen by hundreds, if not thousands if only for others to see how much preparation goes into a night like last night. I can’t begin to list the people who give of themselves, above and beyond to pull off a night like last night. 10 seniors are leaving the program, and with all of the families parading through this space and that place, it’s quite an undertaking. The members of the board, Friends of Hockey for Goffstown High, outstanding work and vigilance to tradition, to creativity, and to making it so easy for the senior families. Thank you, Al Potvin, for the voice, the reading, the announcements, and taking all of that that on, to the benefit of us all. Thank you to Tobey Gamache and everyone else who held a door, who saved a seat, who cleared the path, who called out names, who prompted the next move, who snapped photo after photo, who volunteered and gave of their time to make the honorees feel special; thank you. You all were outstanding. The flags, the bear, the flowers, the balloons, the jerseys, the signs (those were so awesome that I want to stop and look at them some more), the senior boards, the family and group pictures, all were incredible and just make the moment that much more special. The list is long but somehow the moment passes in a flash not so dissimilar to how quickly four years of high school seem to go. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. I do believe our kids know what it feels like to feel special, even if it takes some distance in years to fully realize it. Wow, we are truly blessed.

Why are we blessed? These ten. Drive. Determination. Passion. Refusing to settle for the way it has been. (Sage Photo)

I heard both, first and second hand, commentary from folks gathered around the senior boards up on the concourse. There were conversations, explanations, laughs, memories, moments, achievements, and proof of a kid’s sheer passion to master a sport that separates itself from all others by the simple fact that it’s played on a pair of razor blades. For many, that pursuit of passion has consumed as much as 70% of these kids young lives thus far. The support system necessary to pull off such a feat is one of the things that has me believing, still, that hockey teams and hockey families are the best of the best, across all sports, mainly because the structure of family within the pursuit of passion is not matched in any other team sport.

They are almost done yet it seems likely they just bearly got started. (That play on words is for you Dad). (Sage Photo)

I am humbled and honored to be a part of this group. (Sage Photo)

Let’s fill this place! Only one more regular season home game. Be there Saturday the 16th! (Sage Photo)

The Captain greets his team onto the ice for a tilt with Keene. (Sage Photo)

Nobody has ever seen the Grizzlie and Sean Hunter in the same place at the same time. #ferocious (Sage Photo)

The rest of the Grizzlies welcome the this year’s seniors to the ice in pre-game ceremonies. (Sage Photo)

Fortunately the Grizzlies, and their seniors, did not come out flat on Senior Night against the defending D2 Champions, winning 4-3. (Photo by Charron)

Most rinks have boards, but not like these very special boards. (Photo by Charron)

They say that some Grizzlies are more intimidating than others. (Sage Photo)

Cook, Burke, Lassonde, Beal, Noonan starting on Senior Night. (Photo by Charron)

I am not a senior mom, but I know quite a few. I was fortunate enough to be present in my own home when we hosted 10 senior hockey moms on Saturday night. I did have to sign numerous pacts of secrecy, pledge various allegiances, complete a few ritualistic tasks, and create a special workstation to employ the greatest technical arts and crafts kit I have ever laid eyes on, just to be allowed to continue with my humble ramblings. In the end, it was one of the best nights of the last four years. The stories, the sense of excitement to be kid-free for a night, the sense of humor, the collective time spent over the years, all of us together in our family room. All the moms, preparing as only moms can, for a visual presentation, the culminating of all the years, essentially leading to the high school sports version of a retirement night for 10 outstanding kids and their families. It is almost too much for me to even contemplate capturing. Let me just say that we had so much fun that our calendars are already being prepped for next year’s meeting; senior night, or not.

If you’re not making a face similar to this, you might want to step up your game a notch or two. (Sage Photo)

Kyle, the backstop, with Alex McCarthy out front. (Sage Photo)

Jacob Noonan leans into a shot with all the seniors posted behind him. Colby netted this rebound. (Sage Photo)

Sometimes a goaltender has to stand on his head to stand tall in a game. Kyle did a little of that too in the 4-3 win over Keene. (Sage Photo)

It’s an optical illusion. Once this game got going it was like the Grizzlies were skating down hill. (Sage Photo)

Colin Burke delights the Goffstown home crowd with his derring-do. (Photo by Charron)

The one, the only, Devin Cote. Glad he came back this season. (Photo by Charron)

Senior, forward, Alex McCarthy. (Photo by Charron)

Okay, I am sorry to get off track or wherever I am but those moms apply a lot of pressure, there are royalties, speaking engagements, craft fairs, etc. lined up. It may have been a night that was a little too big for its’ own britches. Under the agreement, I am now supposed to write, for next year’s gathering, “Bring your own slippers”. Make of it what you will. I am a good soldier.

Alrighty then, the spotlight was dimmed, and the rink lights were raised to game time level. Lineups were announced while taking a moment to recognize the seniors on Keene’s roster as well. Then, GHS student, Serena Martinez crushed it completely! When she opened the game with a tremendous singing of our National Anthem. I was standing right beside her and the sweet, soft tones of her voice did the difficult song justice and then some. Thank you for being a part of the evening for all of us.

Sorry boys, I gotta get going. (Sage Photo)

Brett Lassonde skated with the wind at his back all night. (Sage Photo)

This is not an optical illusion. Jake is actually looking over his own shoulder. (Sage Photo)

This ain’t no slow dance. Make some noise and let’s rock this place! (Sage Photo)

Teammate behavior. (Sage Photo)

Goffstown erupted for 3 goals in the second period in their 4-3 win over Keene. (Sage Photo)

Theo, Grady, Luke, and Lassonde line up against Keene. (Sage Photo)

Chretien skates circles around opponents on a regular basis. (Sage Photo)

Calm as the other side of the pillow (RIP Stuart Scott), Noonan is another name for “no sweat”. (Sage Photo)

Theo Milianes tries to keep both feet inbounds while making the catch, but he was overthrown. (Sage Photo)

The game finally started and both teams were playing with good energy. Keene had just played on Saturday and ended Oyster River’s 7-0-1 unbeaten streak with a 5-1 win and raising their win streak to 3 in a row after losing 3 in a row. Goffstown hadn’t played since Feb. 2nd when they lost at Windham, because their game at John Stark on Wednesday night had been winter weathered out. Pleasantries were immediately renewed when Jerred Tattersall braced for a hit from Sebastian Beal in the opening seconds and butt-ended Beal in the throat when both players got their sticks up. No calls were made until the second period. Then, when Grady Chretien lost the puck in the offensive zone out high, Jerred Tattersall beat Colin Burke, who let up about two strides too early, to the front of the net and scored an unassisted goal at 4:10 of the period. It was Keene’s first shot on net. Not to be outdone, the Grizzlies answered with a goal of their own 55 seconds later. Colby Gamache made a nice little pass at center ice to Griffin Cook who carried the puck into the offensive zone. Cook and Sebastian Beal exchanged shots and rebounds before Cook buried the puck in the net, and the game was tied 1-1 at 5:05 of the period. After some back and forth play with Keene playing noticeably more aggressive offensively than in their first meeting out in Keene, the Black Birds got on the board again. Brian Langevin, who I call one of the best distributors of the puck in D2 because he puts the puck in good places at the right time consistently, set the goal up. Tyler Summers shot a puck over the net that was retrieved by Langevin who gave a little chip pass to Ben Brown in the corner. Langevin kept skating toward the end boards and got the puck back on a little touch pass from Brown. Langevin continued behind the net and dished a perfect backhand pass to Summers who had closed the gap, coming in from the right point. Summers met little resistance out front and put a shot off of the inside of the far post for the go-ahead goal at 9:29. So after one period, Keene led 2-1 on the board, while the Grizzlies had a slim lead in shots, 11-9.

Everybody is on their feet when Brett Lassonde requests a bench fly-by. (Photo by Charron)

Grady Chretien hustles so much, he once dove head first onto the ice to start a shift. (Photo by Charron)

Isaac McGregor lines up next to legendary guitarist, Joe Walsh. (Photo by Charron)

Isaac McGregor moves the puck against Keene. (Photo by Charron)

Jacob Noonan, Senior, defenseman on the move against Keene. (Photo by Charron)

Theo, the puck, and a little room to skate against Keene. (Photo by Charron)

Sebastian gets pulled over by a very heavy puck, or something like that. (Photo by Charron)

Griffin Cook loves to play in the snow. (Photo by Charron)

Word has spread around the league that when you see this scene unfold, there may be an update needed on the scoresheet. (Photo by Charron)

Alex McCarthy leans on his opponent once in awhile. (Photo by Charron)

Sebastian Beal uses the power of his mind the lift the puck to his stick. (Photo by Charron)

Eric DesRuisseaux uses his speed to get up the ice against Keene. (Photo by Charron)

The second period was barely underway when Jerred Tattersall cross-checked Colby Gamache in the right kidney area and dropped him flat on the ice. Then he followed Griffin Cook to the corner while the official had his arm in the air on a delayed penalty call and dropped him in the corner. Although Cook looked like he lost an edge anyway. After much discussion, the officials called a 5-minute major for interference on Tattersall. Either way, the Grizzlies went on a 5-minute power play trailing by a single goal, just 50 seconds into the period. Goffstown tied the game shortly thereafter, on a beautiful hockey play. Sebastian Beal sent a diagonal pass back to the right point but it was off the mark and Colin Burke used his reach and a long stick that was probably handed down by Paul Bunyan to deflect the puck to Grady Chretien and maintain possession. Chretien got pinned against the boards but manage to get the puck back to Burke who let a nice wrist shot go towards the net. Sebastian Beal had gone to the front of the net and made a sensational play, tipping the puck from a waist-high shot that was going wide, down to the ice and past Jacob Russell in net for Keene. The game was tied again at 2:24.

There’s nothing like strength in numbers, and everything feels better when you win. (Sage Photo)

Sebastian flexes in front of the home crowd in the win against Keene. (Photo by Charron)

Colby Gamache calculates the exact trajectory and angle needed to bank this clearing attempt off of the glass, and put the puck on net to avoid icing. (Sage Photo)

Still, on the man-advantage, Chretien made a pass from center ice ahead to Burke who shaked-baked-rattled-and-rolled into an open seam and fed a perfect pass back to Griffin Cook who ripped a shot through traffic and into the net at 3:45. Colby Gamache and Sebastian Beal provided a screen that Jacob Russell was trying to see around when the puck hit the strings. Goffstown led 3-2 and was still on the power play for another 2:06. Momentum would shift in a big way though after Goffstown looked unstoppable on the power play, Sebastian Beal got tangled up with Peter Haas and dropped him from behind. Beal was only whistled for interference but it changed the flow of the game completely. Keene went on the offensive. Kyle LaSella made a series of saves including a textbook right pad save midway through the period to hold the lead. Even though the Grizzlies would play a strong period the rest of the way, they had to kill another penalty and you could see their energy depleting quickly. The home town squad did tally an even-strength goal at 13:08. The whole offense was involved on the play when Griffin Cook, Sebastian Beal, and Colin Burke all touched the puck before Jacob Noonan stepped in and ripped a shot off of Russell’s shoulder. The puck landed in front of the goaltender and Colby Gamache showed off his hands with a beautiful backhand shot up under the crossbar inside the far post where grandma hides the really expensive Christmas gifts. Goffstown outshot Keene 17-5 in the period and put up three unanswered goals to take a 4-2 lead into the dressing room.

Hard work rewarded. Working too hard to celly. (Sage Photo)

The third period was a war of attrition. Goffstown played with good pace for the first 5 minutes or so, holding a 2-goal lead and trying to put the game away. The Grizzlies and their faithful thought for sure they had a 5-2 lead when Grady Chretien put a shot past Jacob Russell but Tyler Summers was on the back doorstep and made the save for Russell and Keene. But Keene kept pressing, and Goffstown’s legs looked a bit weary. Eight minutes into the period LaSella bailed out a tired squad in front of him with a pair of saves on the skilled Brian Langevin and the rebound follow up by Joe Walsh. Then just 28 seconds later Dimitri Seger found himself wide open in the high slot after the puck took a crazy bounce off of the glass on the right wing boards. LaSella, said I got this and snagged the shot with his glove.

LaSella played well and had eyes on the team’s 10th win of the season. (Sage Photo)

At 9:39 of the period the Grizzlies were whistled for icing when Grady Chretien banked a lifted puck off of the glass in his own end that traveled the length of the ice and gave Keene an offensive zone faceoff. Looking back it I am guessing Chretien would have realized he had some time and some space to skate the puck out of the zone. Brian Langevin won the faceoff to Joe Walsh who shot the puck towards the net, but it caromed off of Griffin Cook’s thigh and onto the stick of Jerred Tattersall who didn’t miss with his shot. Suddenly it was a 1-goal game with 5:17 to play. Goffstown mustered enough will and enough offensive pressure to keep Russell between the pipes until 14:34 and then it was too late for the Black Birds. Keene outshot Goffstown 9-7 in the period, scored the only goal of the third, but couldn’t overcome a devastating second period, and fell 4-3. Goffstown improved to 10-3-1 on the season. Keene dropped to 7-5. Both teams are likely to be in the postseason and could very well meet again.

Colin takes Kyle LaSella under his wing for a moment while Brett makes sure that the coast is clear. (Photo by Charron)

With the win Coach, Ben Slocum bettered his own Goffstown program record with his 4th consecutive campaign coaching the team to at least 10 wins in the regular season. The Grizzlies travel to play a feisty Winnacunnet team at Phillips Exeter Academy on Wednesday night. Goffstown has Winnacunnet, Oyster River, John Stark-Hopkinton, and Alvirne-Milford left on the schedule. That’s not an easy finish, especially with three of these games on the road. Look out for John Stark-Hopkinton. They are 17-0 this season with a slight 100-19 edge in scoring over their opponents this season.

Somehow in my mind, this has to be a similar feeling to what a young gazelle goes through when spying Griffin Cook with the puck on his stick and room to operate. (Sage Photo)

NHIAA Hockey: Updated Records: Goffstown (10-3-1) Keene (7-5-0)

Senior Night

Sullivan Arena, St. Anselm College, Goffstown, NH February 10, 2019. 5:00 PM Start:

Kyle LaSella, thanks for coming to play hockey as a sophomore. Still standing. (Sage Photo)

Summary:

Goals:

Goffstown: 1-3-0 = 4 Keene: 2-0-1 = 3

Shots:

Goffstown: 11-17-07 = 35 Keene: 09-05-09 = 23

Scoring:

1st Keene at 4:10. Even. Jerred Tattersall unassisted.

1st Goffstown at 5:05. Even. Griffin Cook (22) from Sebastian Beal (24) and Colby Gamache (22).

1st Keene at 9:29. Even. Tyler Summers from Brian Langevin and Ben Brown.

2nd Goffstown at 0:24. PPG. Sebastian Beal (12) from Colin Burke (12) and Grady Chretien (5).

2nd Goffstown at 8:57. PPG. Griffin Cook (23) from Colin Burke (13) and Grady Chretien (6).

2nd Goffstown at 9:51. Even. Colby Gamache (16) from Jacob Noonan (7).

3rd Keene at 9:43. Even. Jerred Tattersall from Joe Walsh and Brian Langevin.

Penalties:

Goffstown:

Sebastian Beal 2:00 Interference

Bench 2:00 Too many men

Keene:

Jerred Tattersall 5:00 Interference

Special Teams:

Goffstown Power Play: 2 for 3. Keene Power Play: 0 for 2.

Saves: Goffstown:

Kyle LaSella 20 of 23. (45:00)

Keene:

Jacob Russell 31 of 35. (44:34)

Hockey: Goffstown 4 vs. Keene 3 (Senior Night) From Sullivan Arena in Goffstown, NH - February 10, 2019: It's always nice to win on Senior Night but to beat an exceptional team, the defending champions of the league you play in, in a great game on your home ice.

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1inawesomewonder · 5 years

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From Icenter Salem in Salem, NH – February 2, 2019:

The trouble with being so emotionally tied to this team is that we only expect perfection. Or at least a level very close to it. In Salem on Saturday evening, the Grizzlies lost a game that I can only really define as extremely frustrating, to a solid, quick Windham club, 6-3.

Why so frustrating you ask? Well for me, it was that every time Goffstown looked to be in control, or about to come back, or even impose their will, Windham scored. They didn’t just score though, it was the manner in which they scored, and when they scored. The timing of the goals was more or less heart wrenching, which may be tied to that emotional connection I mentioned earlier. Grizzlies take a 1-0 lead, and then Windham scores a pair of goals in 15 seconds. Windham scores 24 seconds into the middle period. Then Goffstown dominates play with a goal that made it 3-2 during a span of 11 straight shots on goal, before a lazy clearing attempt which handed the puck to Tommy Langlois and he scored from a nearly impossible angle. After the goal, Windham got 9 of the next 10 shots, and Goffstown’s back had been broken. Even so, in the 3rd period, Goffstown cut the deficit to 4-3 on a gorgeous play. Moments later Goffstown committed a penalty leading to a powerplay goal for Windham and ultimately a last-minute turnover behind the net that gave Windham another freebie, and the game was done, 6-3. Perhaps I will add some detail as we go along, but that was the game in a nutshell.

Sebastian Beal puts the rebound into the net. (Sage Photo)

The puck is on the blade for just a fraction of a second. (Sage Photo)

There were a lot of Jaguars around the Grizzlies in the center of the ice all night. (Sage Photo)

Grady weaves through several Windham defenders. (Sage Photo)

It’s not often, in my experience anyway, that during a high school sporting event pre-game National Anthem that fans were leaning and looking toward the booth to see if this song was being sung live, or what recording this might be. It was a live performance. It was the incredible Olivia Tsetsilas singing the National Anthem from the scorer’s booth at the Icenter Salem. She was outstanding as usual. People all around went beyond the customary golf clap and made an effort to be heard because Liv had connected with all of us.

Thus the stage was set for the night’s main event, Division I Windham hosting Division II Goffstown for some hockey. The game started with both teams testing the waters and not too much really happening. Then 5:13 into the opening period Kyle LaSella made a really nice save for the Grizzlies as both teams were starting to hit their respective strides. At 6:03 of the period Colby Gamache got the Grizzlies on the board when he scored on a set up from Sebastian Beal. Several of us didn’t see the goal because we were looking at the clock and yelling to the booth for them to start the clock which they finally did after some 20 seconds or so. This would happen a few more times on the night. Both teams were giving and taking, and Goffstown was starting to get some rhythm. Then, lightning struck twice, and in a hurry. Windham scored at 12:36 on an easy pass to the slot where Alek Tunik scored on a feed from Matt Crowley. Fifteen seconds later Bobby DiCicco came barrelling down the right wing on a pass from Michael Blaschuck and put the puck past LaSella in goal for Goffstown. The period ended with Windham ahead 2-1. Of note, many would be scoring chances for the Grizzlies were negated by the lack of the pass. Windham gave some space but not much in the middle of the ice. Numerous attempts to stickhandle through the traffic yielded nothing for Goffstown.

Griffin Cook and the Grizzlies defend. (Sage Photo)

Eric DesRuisseaux makes a pass out of his own defensive end. (Sage Photo)

There was not a lot of room for Cook against the Windham defense. (Sage Photo)

The Grizzlies line up for a faceoff against Windham. (Sage Photo)

To start the second period, Windham scored in the opening 24 seconds. They got a goal on a shot that honestly looked like it might be wide of the nearside post when it left Alek Tunik’s stick. Somehow it got through LaSella and into the net. Assists were given to Owen Brea and Max Cavallaro. It was a back-breaking type of goal but Goffstown answered with a tremendous response. The Grizzlies would get the next 11 shots on goal and they were a threat to score on nearly every shift. In that run, Sebastian Beal netted a goal from the crease on a rebound of a Colin Burke shot at 8:57. Griffin Cook had the first assist on the play, and the score was 3-2. Less than a minute later, Colin Burke had time and space with the puck in his own end and made a lackluster (I called it lazy in my notes) pass attempt that Tommy Langlois picked off. Langlois was by himself, snagged the puck, and somehow scored from an impossible angle at 9:51. The goal gave Windham a 4-2 lead on just their 10th shot of the game, and only their second shot of the period. After the goal, Goffstown pulled LaSella despite being steady, if not stellar, so far this season. But the visitors needed to change the results they were getting last night. Madeline Sage came in to relieve LaSella. Then something else happened. Goffstown had been taking the play to Windham for several minutes and all of the sudden they were down a pair of goals again. Windham also then ripped off 9 of the next 10 shots on goal as the wind had left the Grizzlies sails. At 14:00 Sage made a beautiful left toe save on Windham’s Owen Larouco to keep it at 4-2. After two periods Windham led 4-2 on the scoreboard and 19-17 in shots.

Goffstown battled to come back and come back some more at Windham. (Sage Photo)

Windham made the most of their chances against Goffstown. (Sage Photo)

Madeline Sage came in to the game in the 2nd period and was put to the test right away. (Sage Photo)

Maddie makes one of her 17 saves in relief at Windham. (Sage Photo)

Then the Grizzlies picked themselves up again and scored on a gorgeous play at 5:47. Sebastian Beal worked the puck to Griffin Cook who quickly found Grady Chretien out in front. Chretien wasted no time roofing a tremendous shot up were grandma hides the sweets cut the deficit to 4-3. The Grizzlies were pressing and kept on coming. Then behind the play, Eric DesRuisseaux was whistled for a slashing penalty at 9:05. It was a penalty, but it certainly was not anywhere near as severe as some plays by both teams over the second half of the game that should have or could have been called. Windham scored 25 seconds later when Alek Tunik netted his third goal of the night from Matt Crowley on a rebound after Maddie Sage had made a pretty good save on the first shot. Finally, the hill was too high to climb. Tommy Langlois picked the pocket of DesRuisseaux behind his own net and put a puck past Sage in net to give Windham their final lead of 6-3, at 14:18. Madeline Sage came in to play in the second period and played just over 20 minutes while making 17 saves on 19 shots, and she gave the Grizzlies some hope of a comeback after playing catch up all night. Let me say again that Kyle LaSella has been beyond solid this season for Goffstown, he just had an off night. I don’t know if it had anything to do with the Icenter Salem having the darkest rink in the state, but they should really turn on the rest of their lights.

Goffstown travels to New England College on Wednesday night to play the frighteningly good John Stark-Hopkinton team who are D3 defending champions and 12-0 this season. They have outscored their opponents 75-9. Yes, they have allowed just 9 goals in 12 games.

NHIAA Hockey: Updated Records: Goffstown (9-3-1) Windham (7-5-1)Icenter Salem, Salem, NH February 02, 2019. 5:40 PM Start:

Summary:

Goals:

Goffstown: 1-1-1 = 3 Windham: 2-2-2 = 6

Shots:

Goffstown: 05-12-06 = 23 Windham: 08-11-10 = 29

Scoring:

1st Goffstown at 8:03. Even. Colby Gamache (15) from Sebastian Beal (22).

1st Windham at 12:36. Even. Alek Tunik from Matt Crowley.

1st Windham at 12:51. Even. Bobby DiCicco from Michael Blaschuck.

2nd Windham at 0:24. Even. Alek Tunik from Owen Brea and Max Cavallaro.

2nd Goffstown at 8:57. Even. Sebastian Beal (11) from Colin Burke (11) and Griffin Cook (19).

2nd Windham at 9:51. Even. Tommy Langlois unassisted.

3rd Goffstown at 5:47. Even. Grady Chretien (19) from Griffin Cook (20) and Sebastian Beal (23).

3rd Windham at 9:30. PPG. Alek Tunik from Matt Crowley.

3rd Windham at 14:18. Even. Tommy Langlois unassisted.

Penalties:

Goffstown:

Eric DesRuisseaux 2:00 Slash

Windham:

Bench 2:00 Too many men

Special Teams:

Goffstown Power Play: 0 for 1. Windham Power Play: 1 for 1.

Saves: Goffstown: Kyle LaSella 6 of 10. (24:51)

Goffstown: Madeline Sage 17 of 19. (20:09)

Windham: Andoni Tsoukalas 20 of 23. (45:00)

Hockey: Goffstown 3 at Windham 6 From Icenter Salem in Salem, NH - February 2, 2019: The trouble with being so emotionally tied to this team is that we only expect perfection.

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1inawesomewonder · 5 years

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From Sullivan Arena in Goffstown, NH – January 30, 2019:

Sometimes in hockey, the uptempo skating and pace of one team make the other team look less effective, or if nothing else, makes them look sluggish. Then again, that’s why you have to compete for all three periods or more. Goffstown battled back, tied the game late in the third, and won the game in overtime, 3-2.

Here is a clip (Courtesy of GTV Sports) of the game-winning goal. Or what should have been the game-winning goal, but for reasons that have been bewildering, to say the least, another call this season that was blatantly missed. This was a beautiful play that culminated in Colin Burke slamming the puck into the open side of the net.

Anyways, when the game started, after a recording of one of my all-time favorite National Anthem performances (Wayne Messmer 1991 NHL All-Star Game at the old Chicago Stadium) while troops were over attending to Desert Storm, I was ready to go. It turns out that I wasn’t alone. Kingswood showed their team skating ability right from the start, as did the Grizzlies. The first period wasn’t much to watch as far as whistles, or scoring was concerned. Well, Joey Vetanze made a pair of brilliant saves in quick succession on Griffin Cook and Sebastian Beal respectively from right out front in the second half of the period. Actually, several of us thought that the game was marred with penalties early on but not a single one was called. As a matter of fact, the entire 15-minute period was played in just over 18 minutes of elapsed time which included all stoppages, faceoffs, line changes, etc. That’s actually hard to do, but nothing was being called and both teams went up and down the ice. Kingswood outshot the Grizzlies 7-6 in the period. At times it seemed as though there may have been more shots on goal per team than completed passes because not much seemed to click.

Jacob Noonan meanders into the slot area looking for a chance to shoot. (Photo by Charron)

Luke Chase gets after Kolbe Maganzini and the puck at Sullivan Arena. (Photo by Charron)

Grady uses some of his Sumo Wrestling footwork to elevate his game. (Photo by Charron)

Okay, pick an opening to shoot at, all in a fraction of a second while all parts are moving. (Photo by Charron)

In the second period, it was quite different from the start. Eric DesRuisseaux playing on defense made a potentially dangerous turnover, but partner Colin Burke helped him out with a great poke check to break up the play just 59 seconds into the period. Then a slashing call and hooking call was whistled back-to-back on the Knights from Kingswood. Goffstown was unable to capitalize on either powerplay opportunity despite some really good chances. Sebastian Beal took a roughing penalty but the Grizzlies held. Then it was Vetanze again, this time robbing Griffin Cook on a point-blank redirection that appeared to hit the knob of the goalie’s stick and fall harmlessly away. Kyle LaSella, not to be outdone, made an absolutely sensational save on Sam Danais who had broken in behind the Goffstown defense. Danais, working from right to left, left a soft shot back to his right, where LaSella made a brilliant left toe save while moving to his right. Incredible save! Then finally, a goal. Grady Chretien picked the puck right off of Cole Emerson’s stick behind the net, turned the corner and fired a shot past Vetanze to give Goffstown a 1-0 lead. The score would hold to end the period and both teams had 9 shots on goal in the middle stanza.

Theo Milianes heads up ice in a special colored high-speed lane that only he can use. (Photo by Charron)

Eric DesRuisseaux graciously pauses so the photographer can capture hockey picture number 100,000 of her career. Outstanding achievement! (Photo by Charron)

Colin Burke impressed the judges with his Great Blue Heron of Hockey move. Notice the forearm, stick, and back leg all in a line. Shoulders turned, parallel. Creative and beautiful. (Photo by Charron)

Isaac McGregor ladies and gentlemen. (Photo by Charron)

Goffstown started the final period with a 1-0 lead and when Kingswood took a penalty at 1:12 it looked like the Grizzlies might be able to add to their lead. As it turned out, Sebastian Beal sent a pass behind Grady Chretien which led to Sam Danais using his speed to grab the puck and off to the races. Danais managed to outduel Chretien on a 1-on-1 break and slipped a backhand shot past Kyle LaSella to tie the game at 1:48. Despite the goal against Goffstown, the home town team turned up the pressure and dominated time of possession, shots, and scoring chances for most of the period. Joey Vetanze robbed Chretien more than once with outstanding saves for the senior goaltender, including an acrobatic glove save. Even though the Grizzlies were getting chance after chance, they were still quite careless with the puck. They threw pucks to open spaces and to places where the opponent was waiting to pilfer. Then after winning an offensive zone faceoff, the Knights turned a Goffstown shot into a goal in a matter of seconds. Colby Gamache won the faceoff right back to Griffin Cook. Shot fired but the shot was blocked by Kolbe Maganzini who then hooked, hacked, and held Sebastian Beal while the shot deflected to the corner. After a quick movement of the puck from Nick Potenza and Cody Emerson, Sam Danais had the puck on his stick at his own blue line. He made a quick, accurate pass to Colby Clegg flying through center ice. Brett Lassonde and Jacob Noonan reacted to the speedy Clegg and both converged on the forward. They managed to separate Clegg from the puck on a play that could easily have been called a tripping penalty on the Grizzlies. The puck ended up on the stick of onrushing Cody Emerson who deked, shot, and scored at 10:06 to give the Knights a 2-1 lead.

I am not up on all the rules but there appears to be something wrong with Colby’s hockey stick. (Photo by Charron)

May the flex be with you. (Photo by Charron)

Griffin Cook corners and ice shavings fly. (Photo by Charron)

Eric DesRuisseaux poised to shoot likes he’s competing in the shooting accuracy contest. (Photo by Charron)

Then at 11:35 or so of the period, Sebastian Beal and Colin Burke looked as though they had connected on a game-tying goal as the puck went to the goal line, or over it, or who knows. Based on the call that would come a few minutes later, it’s hard to say. Either way, the puck stayed in play, the play continued. With about 2:30 remaining, Brett Lassonde got caught flat-footed at center ice trying to play the puck out of the air. He missed. The puck landed and Cody Emerson, who was flying up the left wing, grabbed the puck and led the rush. He drew Jacob Noonan wide with his speed and dropped a beautiful aerial backhand pass to Cole Emerson right on the doorstep. Kyle LaSella held the nearside post and made a great left pad save to keep the Grizzlies within a goal. Even after the save, Goffstown turned the puck directly over to Kingswood twice in the following 20 seconds but staved off any further damage. At 13:19 Logan McEvoy slashed Griffin Cook’s stick right out of his hands and the call was too obvious not to be called. The Grizzlies went on the powerplay and pulled LaSella from the net, but first, they used their timeout. After half a minute, Colby Gamache won an offensive zone faceoff to Griffin Cook. Cook made a short pass back to Grady Chretien at the right point, who made a perfect east-west diagonal pass to Colin Burke. Burke, at the left-wing faceoff dot, ripped a wrist shot that banked off of the crossbar, hit the far post, and then the strings. It was the perfect bank shot, to tie the game at 2-2 with 1:11 to play. Powerplay goal, with the goalie pulled, yeah, it was pretty exciting. Kingswood called their timeout. LaSella returned to his place between the pipes, and there were 71 seconds left to decide the outcome in regulation.

Your captain, Sebastian Beal, focused on the puck vs. Kingswood. (Photo by Charron)

Grizzlies bench vs. Kingswood. Some folks may have had a longer day than others (trainer). (Photo by Charron)

Slightly biased maybe, I love the look of the captain’s little brother in the stands as the Grizzlies celebrate Chretien’s OT winner. (Photo by Charron)

All good things must come to an end. Last year one of the C’s left the team, I mean, graduated. So Colby became this year’s C to go with B for Beal, and C for Cook. CBC the sequel has lived up to the hype thus far, with 45 goals and 59 assists between them. (Photo by Charron)

Here again, played out something eerily similar to what had happened just a minute of game-time before. Gamache wins the faceoff to Griffin Cook, drops a pass to the point, and so on. This time the puck goes low to Burke on the left-wing dot, back to Cook at the left point, and over to Brett Lassonde on the right point. Lassonde skates into the right-wing circle and makes a perfect pass through traffic to Burke on the doorstep, and Burke made no mistake, burying the puck into the net with 6.something left on the clock. The referee, on the goal line, but close to the corner, skates toward the net, then blows his whistle and looks at #9 of Kingswood signaling a kicking motion before waving his arms to say no goal. So the goal was not a goal despite that Burke never kicked the puck. And overtime began. As it would turn out, Grady Chretien scored the sudden death, overtime, game-winning goal at 2:27 of the overtime to win it for the Grizzlies. Luke Chase got the lone assist on the play and the Goffstown bench swarmed Chretien on the ice in celebration. What a game! Kingswood executed their game plan nearly perfect. Goffstown’s top line was a -2 on the night, mustered a single assist, and still beat a good team.

In the game, the Grizzlies were not crisp with the puck at all. This, of course, is in part due to the Knights making it difficult to maneuver with ease. The Grizzlies also lost possession of the puck or had to completely reset their offense no less than four times in the game when passes were dropped to one point of the other, that had been vacated by Colin Burke. Burke took numerous walkabouts in the offensive end of the ice which led to some serious disruption, and a mild heart attack or two. However, it is equally, if not more important to note, that Burke has been immense over the last few games for the Grizzlies. In two of the last three games, Beal and Cook have combined for a total of one assist, yet the Grizzlies won both games. Colin Burke has been a huge reason why Goffstown has won those particular games, including 2 goals and 2 assists in the games mentioned. We all know that it will take the entire group contributing in order to finish strong and make any kind of a run in the tournament. As for now though, it was a great overtime win for Goffstown. Next, they get ready for Windham, now a Division I opponent.

NHIAA Hockey: Updated Records: Goffstown (9-2-1) Kingswood (5-6)

Sullivan Arena, Goffstown, NH January 30, 2019. 7:30 PM Start:

Summary:

Goals:

Goffstown: 0-1-1-1 = 3 Kingswood: 0-0-2-0 = 2

Shots:

Goffstown: 06-09-19-03 = 37 Kingswood: 07-09-04-02 = 22

Scoring:

1st No scoring

2nd Goffstown at 12:51. Even. Grady Chretien (17) unassisted.

3rd Kingswood at 1:48. SHG. Sam Danais unassisted.

3rd Kingswood at 10:06. Even. Cody Emerson from Colby Clegg and Sam Danais.

3rd Goffstown at 13:49. PPG. Colin Burke (6) from Grady Chretien (4) and Griffin Cook (18).

OT Goffstown at 2:27. Even. Grady Chretien (18) from Luke Chase (4).

Penalties:

Goffstown:

Sebastian Beal 2:00 Rough

Griffin Cook 2:00 Trip

Kingswood:

Kolbe Maganzini 2:00 Slash

Bailey Savage 2:00 Hook

Nick Potenza 2:00 Hook

Logan McEvoy 2:00 Slash

Special Teams:

Goffstown Power Play: 1 for 4. Kingswood Power Play: 0 for 2.

Saves: Goffstown: Kyle LaSella 20 of 22. (46:57) Kingswood: Joey Vetanze 34 of 37. (47:27)

Hockey: Goffstown 3 vs. Kingswood 2 (OT) From Sullivan Arena in Goffstown, NH - January 30, 2019: Sometimes in hockey, the uptempo skating and pace of one team make the other team look less effective, or if nothing else, makes them look sluggish.

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1inawesomewonder · 5 years

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From Sullivan Arena in Goffstown, NH – January 26, 2019:

It’s always good to be home. Last night the Goffstown Grizzlies hockey team returned home after completing a hard-fought road win less than 24 hours earlier. And it was apparent early that Goffstown definitely had a bit more jump in their step. The Grizzlies erased an early 1-0 deficit and skated with pace and resolve to a 5-1 win over Spaulding.

Goffstown came out flying and started getting scoring chances right from the first shift. At first, though, the bounces didn’t go their way. Or maybe some of them did. At 3:27 of the period, Grizzlies freshman goaltender, James Amorelli, made a huge left arm save on a point-blank chance by the Red Raiders. More chances came to the Grizzlies, but Spaulding struck first. Ryan Ellis cruised in and scored the first goal of the game, set up by Brady Blaisdell at 8:36. Goffstown answered right back with an unassisted goal from Colin Burke at 9:16. Then a little more than a minute later Lucas Ouellette put his own rebound past Brendan Stanley and the Grizzlies had a 2-1 lead. Then the Grizzlies paraded around the ice like it was popular to spend time in the sin bin. They took 11 minutes in penalties over a span of 2:08 game time. Somehow they killed off more than 3 minutes of being down a pair of skaters.

And the Grizzlies are off and running on home ice. 1 (Photo by Charron)

Griffin Cook starts the rush up ice against Spaulding. 2 (Photo by Charron)

This has been a theme all season. Cook with the puck in the slot. 3 (Photo by Charron)

Cook puts another puck into the back of the net. 4 (Photo by Charron)

In the second period, after finally enduring the last of the penalty blitz, the Grizzlies got back to the offensive pressure. Actually, Griffin Cook took things to another level, and before the period was done, he had his fourth hat trick of the season. First, Cook scored at 3:24 on a faceoff win from Colby Gamache. Then on a gorgeous passing play from Colby Gamache to Sebastian Beal who was behind the net, Beal made a backhand pass from behind the net to Griffin Cook in front of the net. Cook buried the shot and Goffstown had a 4-1 lead at 6:18. Then it was Cook again, from Gamache and Beal at 9:00. So, in 5:36 Cook netted three goals, and Goffstown led 5-1. The Grizzlies played outstanding and fired 14 shots on goal during the period while allowing just 5 shots. Goffstown stayed out of the penalty box and dominated play throughout.

Chretien hunts for shot opportunities like he’s spent three lifetimes tracking wild game. (Photo by Charron)

Colby again, like he’s in the back of a convertible on some cliff clinging highway in California at 65 mph. Watch the jersey wave in the breeze. Quiet on the set. (Photo by Charron)

James Amorelli made 14 saves en route to the 5-1 win against Spaulding. (Photo by Charron)

A picture is worth a thousand flakes of snow that a moment ago were just a mere sheet of ice. (Photo by Charron)

The voice of the Grizzlies and the rest of the crew. Thanks to Matt for all the camera work, and his phone which had this photo trending before anyone even saw it. (Photo by Charron)

The Big E gives the okay for Luke to pass through this contended area. (Photo by Charron)

This photo is for educational purposes. See foreground, see also, background. (Photo by Charron)

Off to the races. One way to go. (Photo by Charron)

Sometimes the shortest distance between two points is a straight line. Sometimes folks dangle. (Photo by Charron)

Alex and the boys head up ice, making double time. (Photo by Charron)

Stephen Provencher sneaks up the left wing boards. (Photo by Charron)

The Big E looking out over his domain. (Photo by Charron)

The final period went quickly, with no scoring, despite the Grizzlies killing 3 more penalties and another minute or so of two skaters down. In the end, the Grizzlies held on to a 5-1 victory. The entire team played with some good energy and plenty of teamwork and they were rewarded for their efforts. Goffstown improved to 8-2-1 on the regular season. The Grizzlies play host to a very dangerous Kingswood squad on Wednesday night, January 30th.

Issac McGregor on the turn. (Photo by Charron)

What percentage of Grady’s skates are actually making contact with the ice here? (Photo by Charron)

Nothing to see here. No hitting opportunity here. (Photo by Charron)

Eric out for a stroll on home ice. (Photo by Charron)

Sebastian hanging out in one of his favorite places. (Photo by Charron)

Alex McCarthy leaves a rooster tail of ice shavings while turning in the corner. (Photo by Charron)

Like a bad commercial set on the beach, Colby’s jersey always seems to be more affected by the wind than anyone around him. (Photo by Charron)

Brett, you are not alone. Ever feel like you’re being watched? (Photo by Charron)

Accidental, on purpose elbow, and a shot waiting to happen. (Photo by Charron)

Jailbreak! Er, uh, a line change in their own end. (Photo by Charron)

The Grizzlies looking for some room to open things up. (Photo by Charron)

Theo Milianes slows things down long enough to assess the situation. (Photo by Charron)

NHIAA Hockey: Updated Records:

Goffstown (8-2-1) Spaulding (0-11)

Sullivan Arena, Goffstown, NH January 26, 2019. 7:00 PM Start:

Summary:

Goals:

Goffstown: 2-3-0 = 5 Spaulding: 1-0-0 = 1

Shots:

Goffstown: 11-14-04 = 29 Spaulding: 06-05-04 = 15

Scoring:

1st Spaulding at 8:36. Even. Ryan Ellis from Brady Blaisdell.

1st Goffstown at 9:16. Even. Colin Burke (6) unassisted.

1st Goffstown at 10:26. Even. Lucas Ouellette (2) unassisted.

2nd Goffstown at 3:24. Even. Griffin Cook (19) from Colby Gamache (19).

2nd Goffstown at 6:18. Even. Griffin Cook (20) from Sebastian Beal (20) and Colby Gamache (20).

2nd Goffstown at 9:00. Even. Griffin Cook (21) from Colby Gamache (21) and Sebastian Beal (21).

3rd No scoring

Penalties:

Goffstown: Sebastian Beal 2:00 Elbow

Grady Chretien 5:00 Major Boarding

Colby Gamache 2:00 Trip

Bench minor 2:00 Too many men Colby Gamache 2:00 Cross Check

Sebastian Beal 2:00 Elbow

Theo Milianes 2:00 Trip

Spaulding:

Zachary Shaw 5:00 Major Interference

Special Teams:

Goffstown Power Play: 0 for 1. Spaulding Power Play: 0 for 7.

Saves: Goffstown: James Amorelli 14 of 15. (45:00) Spaulding: Brendan Stanley 24 of 29. (45:00)

Goffstown wins at home and improves to 8-2-1 on the season. Hockey: Goffstown 5 vs. Spaulding 1 From Sullivan Arena in Goffstown, NH - January 26, 2019: It's always good to be home. Last night the Goffstown Grizzlies hockey team returned home after completing a hard-fought road win less than 24 hours earlier.

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1inawesomewonder · 5 years

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Hockey: Goffstown 5 at Portsmouth-Newmarket 2

From Dover Ice Arena in Dover, NH – January 25, 2019:

After a nighttime scenic tour to some of the ice rinks in the NH Seacoast area, the Grizzlies settled into Dover Ice Arena to play the Clipper Mules of Portsmouth-Newmarket. Despite some less than aesthetically pleasing play for periods of time, Goffstown willed their way to a 5-2 road win over a team just behind them in the standings.

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1inawesomewonder · 5 years

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Another Look - Merrimack at Goffstown

With 9 days off between games let's take Another Look - Merrimack at Goffstown

Throwing snow during a sudden change of direction. (Photo by Charron) Leaning in on the inside edge of a steel blade while getting ready to move the puck. (Photo by Charron) Jacob Noonan puts some stress on his hockey stick while shooting the puck against Merrimack. (Photo by Charron) Beal uses his length to reach around the…

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1inawesomewonder · 5 years

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Hockey: Goffstown 2 vs. Merrimack 4

Grizzlies lose to Merrimack 4-2, snapping 14-home game winning streak

From Sullivan Arena in Goffstown, NH – January 16, 2019:

It is said that all good things must come to an end. Last night Goffstown lost on home ice for the first time in the regular season since February 8th, 2017 (Keene). That’s right, almost 2 full calendar years, and 14 straight home wins later, the regular season home streak is over. Merrimack just kept playing their game and got solid…

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1inawesomewonder · 5 years

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From Sullivan Arena in Goffstown, NH – January 12, 2019:

Goffstown returned to home ice for the first time in four weeks, and they played like it was good to be home. The Grizzlies got a pair of goals from Griffin Cook in the opening 2 minutes and never looked back.

The opening period was a little odd because Goffstown led 2-0 very early and then didn’t score again in the frame. They scored on their first two shots but over the final 13 minutes of the period, they outshot the Alvirne-Milford Admirals just 12-9. Actually, the Admirals had several chances to score in the opening period but Madeline Sage held them scoreless. First, Cook scored from Colby Gamache and Colin Burke at 0:41, on a nice possession and series of passes. Then Cook netted an unassisted goal at 2:00. I know that the final score ended up being 6-1 in favor of the home team, but somehow I don’t feel it really sums up the body of action that played out on the ice at Sullivan Arena. At 9:21 of the period Sage made a great save on a break in by Anthony Viola when he took the puck from Jacob Noonan on another failed D to D bid. At 11:08 of the period Alvirne-Milford turned nothing into a scoring bid and they ripped a shot past Sage in the net but the puck smacked the crossbar and caromed away. The Admirals also had a pair of crossing passes for one-timers right at the crease which were either broken up on the shot or whiffed on entirely by the offensive players. Goffstown led 2-0 at the break yet, the lead wasn’t even that big.

Stephen Provencher looks for a play against the Admirals. (Photo by Charron)

He shoots! He hits the glass behind the net! (Photo by Charron)

Luke Chase with the puck against Alvirne-Milford. (Photo by Charron)

Alex McCarthy looks to move the puck at St. A’s. (Photo by Charron)

Melanie Riendeau was a +1 against Alvirne-Milford. (Photo by Charron)

Jake Noonan on the move. (Photo by Charron)

The motor is running as Brett Lassonde heads up ice. (Photo by Charron)

McCarthy on the faceoff against Damien Barahona. (Photo by Charron)

The Chretien formula is a good, accurate wrist shot. (Photo by Charron)

Griffin Cook has been on fire since 2019 started. (Photo by Charron)

Well, a picture is worth a thousand words. (Photo by Charron)

Sean Hunter works on his turns at Sullivan Arena. (Photo by Charron)

The Big E lets a low hard slapper rip. (Photo by Charron)

Eric DesRuisseaux stick handles against Alvirne-Milford. (Photo by Charron)

Great shot of Colin Burke letting a shot go against the Admirals. (Photo by Charron)

So much action in the crease, featuring Isaac McGregor. (Photo by Charron)

Luke Ouellette gets a shot past the defender. (Photo by Charron)

Colby Gamache has something stuck to his glove. (Photo by Charron)

In the second period, which has been a nemesis of sorts for Goffstown this year, things looked bad again, very early. First, Colby Gamache took a slashing penalty and the Admirals had the first 3 shots of the period, and quickly. Maddie Sage made the saves and at the end of the penalty kill, Brett Lassonde broke free off of a Sage save and almost sprung for a breakaway chance. Anthony Viola never quit hustling and somehow caught Lassonde from behind and poke-checked the puck away at the last second while not committing a penalty. Less than a minute later Colin Burke tried to jump into the offensive play but the puck eluded his stick and the Admirals were off and running. Again, Sage made a nice save and more importantly did not allow a rebound with a pair Admirals right in front of her. One thing about this club from Alvirne-Milford, they don’t stop skating, and quite frankly, they skate really well.

Midway through the period, Goffstown had really stemmed the tide and turned the offensive chances largely in their favor. The Grizzlies were piling up chances one after another. Sebastian Beal finally scored a nice goal set up by Griffin Cook and Colby Gamache at 7:37 to give the Grizzlies a 3-0 lead. At 10:13, just 3 seconds after Damien Barahona had exited the penalty box after serving his time, Jacob Noonan scored from the left point, set up by Calvin Sage. Then at 12:02 of the period Goffstown struck again when Colby Gamache took a pass from Sebastian Beal and put it into the back of the net. Alvirne-Milford would end the period with just 4 shots after starting the period with 3 quick shots. Goffstown had 14 more and led the shot total, 28-13 after two periods.

Colby Gamache nets a goal for the Grizzlies. (Photo by Charron)

The third period was one of those weird timeframes where the home team led by five goals, so the lines get used at depth, and maybe some things get juggled. Then again, this Admirals club doesn’t ever quit so the outcome isn’t really decided until all things play out. See last year’s game when trailing 9-2, Alvirne scored 4 goals in the final period to make things interesting.

So, as it would go, Levi Griffin barrelled into the offensive end and scored a goal for the Admirals at 0:56. The goal was set up by Anthony Viola. Big deal, right? 5-1 game in the third period. Again, Alvirne-Milford had numerous point-blank chances in the final period where a connection on a one-timer could have added a goal, or two, maybe even three. The chances were definitely there. Goffstown’s Grady Chretien scored an unassisted goal at 4:18 to bring the lead back to five goals. Jackson Dowd spelled Zach Partridge in net for the Admirals after Partridge made 23 saves on 28 shots after 30 minutes. Dowd even took one of the three Admiral penalties they received in the final period, which certainly stemmed any come back bid. Goffstown was poised though, not reacting too much to chippy play, or contact being made after the whistle. To Alvirne-Milford’s defense though, they had chances throughout the game to be much more physical and possibly chippy, and until the last 7 minutes of the game, they mostly took the high road. Goffstown led in shots again, 9-6, but there were probably another 6 shots that the Admirals either missed the net or failed to connect on the shot. The Grizzlies returned to home ice with a 6-1 win against an opponent they’ll see again at the end of the regular season.

Goffstown plays another home game on Wednesday night the 16th, against a much improved Merrimack squad. Then, of course, the 7th Annual Comedy Night happens on the 19th. Goffstown will have some time off after Wednesday’s game and won’t play until they travel to play Portsmouth-Newmarket on January 25th.

Around the league last night, Keene got goals from four different goal scorers to beat Merrimack 4-0. Dover stayed undefeated with 4-0 win against rival Spaulding. Portsmouth-Newmarket improved to 4-1-1 beating Winnacunnet 2-1 in OT. Lebanon-Stevens-Mt. Royal went to Kingswood and left town with a 1-0 win.

NHIAA Hockey:

Updated Records:

Goffstown (6-1-1)

Alvirne-Milford (3-3-1)

Sullivan Arena, Goffstown, NH

January 12, 2019. 7:30 PM Start:

Summary:

Goals:

Goffstown: 2-3-1 = 6 Alvirne-Milford: 0-0-1 = 1

Shots:

Goffstown: 14-14-09 = 37

Alvirne-Milford: 09-04-06 = 19

Scoring:

1st Goffstown at 0:41. Even. Griffin Cook (16) from Colby Gamache (14) and Colin Burke (9).

1st Goffstown at 2:00. Even. Griffin Cook (17) unassisted.

2nd Goffstown at 7:37. Even. Sebastian Beal (10) from Griffin Cook (16) and Colby Gamache (15).

2nd Goffstown at 10:13. Even. Jacob Noonan (2) from Calvin Sage (1).

2nd Goffstown at 12:02. Even. Colby Gamache (12) from Sebastian Beal (18).

3rd Alvirne-Milford at 0:56. Even. Levi Griffin from Anthony Viola.

3rd Goffstown at 4:18. Even. Grady Chretien (14) unassisted.

Penalties:

Goffstown:

Colby Gamache 2:00

Alvirne-Milford:

Jake Natola 2:00

Damien Barahona 2:00

Anthony DeRosa 2:00

Jake Natola 2:00

Jackson Dowd 2:00

Special Teams:

Goffstown Power Play: 0 for 5. Alvirne-Milford Power Play: 0 for 1.

Saves:

Goffstown: Madeline Sage 18 of 19. (45:00)

Alvirne-Milford: Zach Partridge 23 of 28. (30:00)

Alvirne-Milford: Jackson Dowd 8 of 9. (15:00)

Hockey: Goffstown 6 vs. Alvirne-Milford 1 From Sullivan Arena in Goffstown, NH - January 12, 2019: Goffstown returned to home ice for the first time in four weeks, and they played like it was good to be home.

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1inawesomewonder · 5 years

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The Grizzlies celebrate the eventual game-winner against Somersworth-Coe-Brown. (Photo by Charron)

From Rochester Ice Arena in Rochester, NH – January 5, 2019:

If you count the Christmas Tournament, Goffstown has played 10 games so far this season. Interestingly perhaps, they have played 9 of those 10 games on the road, away from Sullivan Arena in Goffstown. The Brian C. Stone Memorial Christmas Hockey Tournament was played at JFK Coliseum in Manchester, NH.

Maybe the most amazing stat is that the Grizzlies are 8-1-1 over the opening 10 games. Playing on the road is difficult enough. Then you also don’t get the last change on stoppages, which is critical against good coaches who have scouted their opponent. It’s also hard to beat good teams anywhere, especially on their own ice.

(Photo by Charron)

Goffstown traveled to Rochester, NH to play the Somersworth-Coe-Brown Northwood Academy Bearcats who were 2-1-1 in league play when the opening puck was dropped. The combined name of the schools included as the home team is almost as long as the distance from Coe-Brown to Somersworth High to Rochester Ice Arena, at 27 miles and about 45 minutes, just to play at home. In a nutshell, or two, Somersworth-Coe-Brown (SCB) is a good team. Their goaltender, Kevin Baker, is one big reason why this was a one-goal game. SCB’s team defense, circling the wagons in front of Baker, is another reason. Goffstown taking senseless penalties when nothing but good decisions was in jeopardy also played a big role in this outcome. The Bearcats are a good skating team with depth in the skill of skating, and that is a huge asset to have. Goffstown escaped the trip to Rochester with a 5-4 road victory that easily could have gone the other way.

So, here’s a thought, the Grizzlies’ captains corps spent 14 minutes in the penalty box tonight. That’s nearly one period of play, taking one of those kids off of the ice. I know players generally (95%+) believe they have not committed a penalty. I mean, ever. That would mean that 7 times this evening these three were penalized for nothing. Honestly, though, some of these penalties were just completely mindless. Which makes me immediately think of players being tired, not on their ‘A’ game to begin with, not mentally prepared (as in looking past their opponent) and last but not least, certainly playing against a worthy opponent.

(Photo by Charron)

Goffstown scored a pair of first period goals to take a 2-0 lead on the Bearcats. Griffin Cook got the scoring started while shorthanded. He grabbed a loose puck at center ice and meandered just a bit before putting the pedal to the metal and flying down the right wing to put the puck in the net. At 14:32 of the period Somersworth-Coe-Brown forward, Ryan Nester took a two-handed swipe with his stick that caromed off of the head and back of Griffin Cook after Cook had made a physical play on Nester. I only mention this because of how the Bearcat player took his decided action and immediately looked around to see if a referee caught him. They did not. 24 seconds later Goffstown scored when Theo Milianes won an offensive zone faceoff then grabbed the loose puck and snapped it past Kevin Baker in goal. Goffstown outshot SCB 13-5 and took a 2-0 lead to the locker room.

The Bearcats came out in the 2nd period with a renewed sense of purpose. A recurring trend showed itself as well when the Grizzlies allowed yet another first-minute goal. SCB scored when Colby Walsh took a shot towards the net that was just about a foot wide of the far side post, a little higher than ankle high off of the ice. Will Sawyer skillfully redirected the puck on net, and past Kyle LaSella to give the Bearcats the goal at 0:58. After matching penalties, and individual penalties to each side, SCB redirected another shot, but this time it hit the post and bounced away at 8:49. At 9:02 of the period the clock was not started for exactly 30 seconds. Immediately after killing another penalty, with a senior defender in the box, the Grizzlies found themselves tied at 2-2. Gage Gagne scored from Daniel Strum a moment after winning the faceoff. Then another frustration decision led to an SCB penalty at 14:29. Goffstown took advantage 19 seconds later when Colby Gamache and Colin Burke worked the puck to Sebastian Beal. Beal ran over a defender while carrying the puck and ripped a shot at Baker between the pipes. Baker made the save but the rebound bounced off of a Bearcat and into the net at 14:48 to give Goffstown a 3-2 lead. The Grizzlies won the shot battle 15-7 but lost the period 2-1 on the scoreboard.

(Photo by Charron)

In the third period, the well-structured, fine skating Bearcats tied the game 3-3 at 1:25 with almost no resistance from the visitors. Jake Pelletier scored from Aiden Perra on a play that looked way too easy. Somehow, 6 seconds later Grady Chretien scored from Theo Milianes to give Goffstown the lead once again. On the next shift, Griffin Cook was set up for his second goal of the game on a gorgeous pass from Colby Gamache. Goffstown led 5-3 with 12:27 to play. Six penalties were called in the next nine minutes, and both teams were guilty of poor reactions to adversity, let’s say. Then Gage Gagne scored his second goal of the night when his shot and then collection and deposit his own rebound were watched closely with little resistance from Goffstown. A minute later Goffstown took a terrible penalty, for no apparent reason or perceived threat, other than to invite the host team a man-advantage opportunity to tie the game. Fortunately for the guilty party, his team killed the penalty before taking another penalty with 10.something seconds left in the game. The Bearcats pulled Kevin Baker from the net at 14:31 and put him back in net after the minor brouhaha when a pair of seniors tried a needless stick swinging dance at 14:49. Goffstown escaped with a 5-4 win.

To expand on a few things, first Somersworth-Coe-Brown has just one senior on their roster, and if the remaining players all come back, this group is going to be very difficult to beat. Second, Goffstown held the puck in the offensive zone for minutes at a time in all three periods, as SCB was content enough to keep all they could to the outside and to let Kevin Baker a good look at shots. The other thing that came from their defensive approach was that the Grizzlies weren’t able to get Baker moving side-to-side, and when he could square up, he saved just about everything he saw. That being said, the visitors scored a powerplay goal, a shorthanded goal, and 3 even strength goals, which speaks to their abilities in many different scenarios. Kyle LaSella made 18 saves en route to the win on the road.

(Photo by Charron)

Around the league, undefeated Dover was idle so they came to scout Goffstown. Keene won at Kingswood, 7-3. Alvirne-Milford tied Portsmouth-Newmarket 1-1 despite both teams having two school names each. Merrimack lost to triple threat Lebanon-Stevens-Mt. Royal 5-2. Winnacunnet won their second game in the last three 6-1 over Timberlane.

NHIAA Hockey:

Updated Records:

Goffstown 8-1-1 overall (5-0-1)

Somersworth-Coe-Brown (2-2-1)

Rochester Ice Arena, Rochester, NH

January 5, 2019. 6:00 PM Start:

Summary: Goals:

Goffstown: 2-1-2 = 5 SCB: 0-2-2 = 4

Shots:

Goffstown: 13-15-10 = 38 Keene: 05-07-10 = 22

Scoring:

1st Goffstown at 1:58. SHG. Griffin Cook (12) unassisted.

1st Goffstown at 4:10. Even. Theo Milianes (3) unassisted.

2nd SCB at 0:58. Even. Will Sawyer from Colby Walsh.

2nd SCB at 12:04. Even. Gage Gagne from Daniel Strum.

2nd Goffstown at 14:48. PPG. Sebastian Beal (9) from Colin Burke (7) and Colby Gamache (12).

3rd SCB at 1:25. Even. Jake Pelletier from Aiden Perra.

3rd Goffstown at 1:31. Even. Grady Chretien (13) from Theo Milianes (3).

3rd Goffstown at 2:33. Even. Griffin Cook (13) from Colby Gamache (13).

3rd SCB at 11:18. Even. Gage Gagne unassisted.

Penalties:

Goffstown: 18:00

SCB: 22:00

Special Teams:

Goffstown Power Play: 1 for 3. SCB Power Play: 0 for 5.

Saves:

Goffstown: Kyle LaSella 18 of 22. (45:00) SCB: Kevin Baker 33 of 38. (44:24)

Hockey: Goffstown 5 at Somersworth-Coe-Brown 4 From Rochester Ice Arena in Rochester, NH - January 5, 2019: If you count the Christmas Tournament, Goffstown has played 10 games so far this season.

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