At the Hands of Semi-Finals Loss, Indians March on to State Playoffs

Last year, the Indians didn't get the respect they deserved in the seedings for the state playoffs.

It didn't matter.

Toms River South went on to win all five games, including knocking off the number one seed en route to a state championship.

Looks like they'll need to do it again.

Despite an impressive season, finishing 14-4-1, and making it to the semi-finals of the Handchen Cup in their first appearance after winning the Dowd Cup last year, the Indians were handed the 9th seed for the upcoming state playoffs.

With the nine seed, South will indeed have one home game -- when they host 24-seeded Old Bridge on our before Tuesday, March 1.

It is possible that they could have a second home game, but unlikely. The Indians most probable bet is to face off with divisional foe Howell for a third straight time in the second round. The two teams have split their head-to-head match up this season with the road team winning both games.

Jay Malone and Todd Unger will need to be factors if the Indians want to make another run like they did last season, along with solid play from South's second line.

Goalie Pat Kearny has been strong down the stretch and will need to continue that.

The date and time of Toms River South's first-round game has yet to be determined.