Mustang Boys Hockey Tournament Road Begins Tonight

The Norwood boys hockey team begins its playoff road, hopefully ending at the Division 1 south sectionals finals, in Brockton tonight at 7:30 p.m. against the sixth-seeded Boxers.

“If we forecheck well, get the puck deep, and use our speed we should be alright,” said head coach Bill Clifford.

The Mustangs finished the season strong and earned a berth by compiling a winning record (8-7-5) this season.

Norwood has five seniors on the team. Senior Adam Kewriga led the team in scoring with 14 goals and 14 assists, while junior Peter Kelly added 21 points this year.

There was no bigger underclassman spark to the Norwood team than sophomore Tyler Gover  who had 25 points this regular season and can be a game changer with his crushing hits and physical play.

In the net is another sophomore sensation, Jordan Davis.

“He made some big saves to keep us in games,” said Clifford. “He played very well, missed three games due to injury, but has been pretty consistent.”

Coach Clifford attributed Davis’ hard work with coach Bob Folan as the biggest reason for his goalie’s improved play.

Senior Anthony Gaita’s 17 points this year has also contributed to the Mustangs' success during the regular season.

In their last game against the sixth-seeded Needham the Mustangs showed some tournament quality play. The team had a 2-0 lead over the Rockets in the third period, before relenting late for the 2-2 tie. A 2-2 tie against a formidable Walpole team was also a prize for the young Mustang team, which also suffered multiple injuries this season.

On defense, Clifford cited Kyle Dolan as having a great year.

The Mustangs will be relying on Dolan and junior Mike Murray to anchor the defense and keep the Boxers out of the zone.

Clifford praised Murray saying, “the kid will skate through a wall for you, just a hard-nosed kid.”

Clifford also was pleased with how the Mustangs skated with speed, moved the puck and played a tough schedule while battling injuries all year.

If the Mustangs get by Brockton they will face the winner of the Marshfield/Falmouth game.

“If we take it one game at a time, you never know, we’re playing good hockey, and everyone starts 0-0,” said Clifford.