Murphy’s last-second goal the difference for Lynnfield (9-2-1)
Published in the January 31, 2018 edition
CAPTAIN COOPER MARENGI celebrates his 2nd period goal with his teammates during Lynnfield’s 4-3 win over Amesbury on Saturday. (Dan Pawlowski Photo)
By STEPHEN MARTELLUCCI
PEABODY — Tyler Murphy’s goal with nine seconds left in the game lifted the Lynnfield High hockey team to a thrilling 4-3 win over guest Amesbury at McVann-O’Keefe Rink in Peabody last Saturday afternoon. With that win, the Pioneers improved to 9-2-1 overall and 5-1-1 in the Cape Ann League.
They now need just one point to clinch a bid to the Division 2 state tournament.
“I was proud of the way we fought back,” said Pioneers head coach Jon Gardner. “We spotted them two goals early and their goalie (Matt Michel) played very well.”
With 8:58 left in the first period, the Indians scored on the power play. They then made it 2-0 with only 52 seconds left in the first.
TYLER MURPHY looks for a teammate against Amesbury on Saturday at McVann-O’Keefe Rink. The captain scored the game-winning goal with nine seconds left to give the Pioneers a 4-3 win. (Dan Pawlowski Photo)
Lynnfield got on the scoreboard 1:14 into the second period as Cooper Marengi scored on the power play assisted by George Deroche. With 9:13 remaining in the second, DeRoche tied it, assisted by Jeff Brandano and Myles McKay.
The Indians (2-8-1 overall and 0-8 in the CAL) then scored another late goal, this time with 23 seconds left.
In the third, John Simonetti tied the game up with 5:21 left assisted by Kyle Nekoroski to set up Murphy’s heroics.
Murphy’s tally was assisted by Jaret Simpson and Joey Mack.
Lynnfield outshot Amesbury on goal, 41-10, as goalie Aidan Kelly (9-2-1) made seven saves.
The Pioneers finished 4-1-1 in its six-game homestand.
This Saturday at noon, the Pioneers go to the Graf Rink to take on first-place Newburyport. On Jan. 10, the Clippers won the first meeting, 3-1.
