Saugus Edges Lincoln-Sudbury Boys Hockey Team in Shootout Victory

In a game with playoff implications, the Saugus Sachems beat out the L-S Warriors 2-0 after a thrilling shootout.

In the first period, Saugus came out hitting as they dominated the boards. However this wasn't enough to keep L-S from getting off several great shots among the 11 they had in the period. Unfortunately, these shots yielded no points and an attacking Saugus offense nearly scored on several occasions, but was stopped by several great saves by L-S goalie Erik Kessler.

As the second period began, L-S came out with new found energy and made several hustle plays that translated into extended offensive possessions. The defense also came out in full force and while Saugus took eleven shots, they were increasingly difficult as L-S defenders forced them to the perimeter and were all over them as they shot. Even though there were no points scored in the period, extended possessions and a methodical offensive approach yielded several scoring opportunities and kept Saugus on the ropes as they never seemed to get settled. Just as the period ended, Saugus was hit with two penalties, for a minute and a half each, that would carry over into the third.

L-S was given a great opportunity at the start of the third period, as they were up two men, a five on three, for a minute and twenty seconds. Against all odds however, Saugus was able to keep the game scoreless. Once Saugus was out of the penalty, they put the heat on L-S with several takeaways on defense and a fast paced offense. The L-S defense countered early, but began to loosen up as the period wore on. They were bailed out on several occasions with miraculous saves by Erik Kessler, including a pair of game saving stops with 15 seconds left in the game. The third period was marked by fast paced play by Saugus, and continued methodical play by L-S that while continuously being in great position, were unable to get anything past Saugus.

With the score tied as time expired, the game went to a shoot out. Saugus can out hot, as they scored on their first attempt. L-S wasn't able to get much going, as many of their shots were quickly covered by the goalie or missed the mark completely. Saugus also scored on their final shot to close out the game.

In the end, it was a game that saw shifts of momentum as well as great play from both goalies. Even though it seemed like someone would score in regulation with the way both teams were playing, two goals in a shoot out were the difference.