By Jennifer Kamionek and Erica Hokenson – Sports Contributors
The Concord-Carlisle High School boys varsity hockey team triumphed over Division 1 rival Braintree in a thrilling overtime showdown with a final score of 3-2, backstopped by goalie Sam Griswold’s impressive 52 saves. The victory wrapped up the Patriots’ run in the Ed Burns Coffee Pot Tournament.
Patriots junior Cam Doull responded quickly after CC trailed by a goal in the first period against Braintree to even the score. The intensity picked up in the second, with both teams battling through a series of penalties, while CCHS showcased strong offensive and defensive play. After falling behind 1-2, Doull once again answered on a power play with an assist from sophomore Joe Grasso, tying the game 2-2 heading into the scoreless third. In overtime a 4-on-4 battle ensued, and sophomore Declan Daley, on an assist from senior Jack Pesce, found the back of the net to seal the victory.
The Patriots also won, 1-0, against Dartmouth on February 18 and are now 14-5-1.
Senior goaltender Jason Swaim held off Dartmouth to close out the regular season with a shutout. Grasso notched the game’s only goal, scoring at the end of the first period on an assist from Doull.
The team advanced to the playoffs, with its first game scheduled on February 26.
