SPORTS: Crusader Hockey Team Blanks Panthers

Shutout goaltending by senior Jason Robes and offense from Connor Maguire (2), Justin Cole (1) and Harrison Perrault (1), fueled Groton-Dunstable's 4-0 impressive win over Marlborough (0-2-1) in a non-conference game played at Groton School.

Robes was at his best, making several saves in the first quarter including a flurry of Panther shots before Maguire (assists: Eric Niemoller, Kam Strong) scored a power play goal at 10:59, the eventual game winner earning GD a 1-0 lead.

Marlborough is a strong skating team but these Crusaders (2-1) are equally quick and just took it to the visitors.  Coach Rowley skates four very capable lines and Monday against Marlborough, got scores from each one.

Sophomore Harrison Perrault (assists: Chris Lattini, Michael Cole) made it 2-0 at 8:50 of the second stanza while at the other end, GD was peppering Panthers' keeper Ben Wiklemen with 22 shots through two periods.

When senior Justin Cole beat Wiklemen at 5:57 of the third to make it 3-0, I thought, just the final score to be determined.

Marlborough never stopped skating, even pulling the goalie with four minutes remaining but GD weathered the onslaught with Robes calmly protecting the shutout.

"I was seeing the puck pretty well for most of the game," shared Robes.

A Maguire empty- netter from the neutral zone capped the scoring.

"We have some young, talented skaters to go with our experienced players," said Coach Rowley. "Freshmen Chris (Lattini) and Mike (Bermingham) are very capable players. Maguire and Robes (20 saves) were solid tonight. The whole team played well, especially when we were short handed."

Wins make nice Christmas presents!