Published in the February 4, 2016 edition
HORNET JUNIOR James Doran fires a shot on net while surrounded by his Newburyport opponents. (Bob Turosz Photo)
By STEPHEN MARTELLUCCI
NORTH READING — Last Saturday night, the North Reading High hockey team was looking for the season sweep against guest Triton at Merrimack College. However, a slow start ended up costing the Hornets a point as they ended up tying the Vikings 2–2.
With that tie, the Hornets record went to 8–2–3 overall and 6–1–2 in the Cape Ann League.
“We did not come out quick and they were able to jump out,” said Hornets head coach John Giuliotti, who feels that maybe his squad took the Vikings lightly after they won the first meeting, 4–0, on Jan. 7.
With 9:05 left in the first period, Sam Rennick scored to give the visitors a 1–0 lead. Triton then went up, 2–0, as Kyle McKendry lit the lamp with 5:56 left in the second period.
The Hornets cut the lead to one 2:20 later as Nico Pastore scored. Mike Driscoll and Tyler Calos both assisted on that tally. Less than two minutes into the third, the Hornets tied it as Brian Cotter scored assisted by Justin Bruzzese.
North Reading did not commit a penalty while the Vikings had four as the Hornets went 0 for 4 on the power play. The hornets outshot the Vikings, 19–15, on net as North Reading goalie, Nick Ponte, made 13 saves.
This Saturday night at 8:30 p.m., the Hornets host Pentucket at Merrimack College. North Reading won the first meeting, 3–0, on Jan. 16 at Veterans Rink in Haverhill
On Feb. 10, the Hornets welcome Lynnfield with that game starting at 8:15 pm. North Reading pounded the Pioneers, 7–1, on Jan. 13 in the first match up at McVann–O’Keefe Rink in Peabody.
