The Plymouth State Men’s Hockey Team is on a tear as of now, with a 4 game winning streak heading into their final two games of the regular season. The Panthers scored at least 4 goals in those victories and even showed their toughness by defeating Fitchburg State in overtime after giving up a 3-0 lead. They defeated Worcester State, Fitchburg State, UMass Dartmouth, and Salem State, all of them being inter-conference opponents. Currently, the team sits with 14-6-3 record with an 11-3-2 record which is good enough for 1st place in the MASCAC Conference.
Most recently they defeated Salem State on the road. Plymouth battled back after falling down 3-1 early in the second period. Sophomore JR Barone (West Chester, Pa.) scored the last two goals for Plymouth, the second one being the winning goal.
“It seems like we are back on track after a tough stretch of games over winter break. As long as everyone believes and buys into each other I don’t think there is a team that can beat us. We need to just go into every game with the same mindset and not playing down to any opponents levels”, said Barone, “We did a lot of good things throughout the game on Saturday, we all stuck with each other and worked harder when we were down in the game and that shows good leadership. We found a way to win the game which is a very good thing going into playoffs”.
Despite the 4 goals let up by the Panthers, their defense was pretty solid. The 4 goals came off of 16 shots, 12 of which senior goalkeeper Evan Morelli (Reading, Mass.) set back. Salem just seemed to be able to capitalize on their chances.
Barone went on to say “The team's overall performance was good I thought. Battling through adversity and finding a way to win is what you want in the team”.
The Panthers are home for their next game against Framingham State, which is on Saturday the 16th. The team will be holding their senior night, puck drop is set for 6pm, but get down there early to see the senior skaters honored during their last regular season home game.