Bulldogs Ground Seahawks on the Ice

After braving a storm on Long Island during the day, the Bellmore-Merrick boys hockey team knew they were in for another last night when they faced the Cold Spring Harbor Seahawks at Newbridge Ice Rink.

Cold Spring Harbor is currently two points ahead in the standings with a 7-10-1 record. Bellmore came in at fifth in the conference at 6-8-1. Even though Bellmore-Merrick has games in hand, a victory would have put them in great position to see the post-season. And after the 9-0 performance they put on last night, they're seeing 20/20.

Bellmore got out to an early lead in the first period, scoring twice before the horn sounded. The first goal of the night came from junior Brett Capilupi on a skillful deflection between his legs beating the Cold Spring Harbor goaltender. The second of the period came while the Bulldogs were shorthanded on a great break out pass to junior James Bobb. Bobb got behind the defense and was left all alone with the goalie beating him blocker side. He finished with two goals on the night.

As we saw trees branches falling and flailing in the wind on this wet and windy January day, the game was more of the same. Both teams were throwing bodies and playing hard leading to many exciting moment for the 60-plus fans in attendance.

"It was expected, coming off last game we knew this had to be a big effort," said Bulldog senior Joe Gavin.

In the second period the Bulldogs were able to tack on a couple more to their lead on an excellent move by veteran senior Joe Gavin. Gavin seemed to take a page out of the book of Islander great Mike Bossy, splitting the defense and beating the goalie with skill and grit.

"He does all the small things, creating time and space, and getting all the guys involved," said Coach Patten.

When interviewed after the game about which NHL player he tries to emulate, Gavin replied, "Theo Fluery. He's  just a tough, gritty player."

Scoring his second of the game was Bobb, on a nifty blast from the right side.

"He played another great game. One of two guys with two goals tonight," Patten said.

At the end of the second, the Bulldogs continued to keep the wind blowing and took command, leading 6-0. The birds were left grounded.

The third period was all about puck possession and clock control as the Bulldogs collectively played smart hockey and saw them through to a 9-0 victory. Overall it was a great team effort, which saw seven different Bulldogs on the score sheet. Cold Spring Harbor played with a extremely short bench of nine players and got quite a workout, as it showed late in the game.

"The team played together and when you can roll all four lines it's great," Patten said.

The Bulldogs also got a magnificent shutout effort from junior Michael Barry. Michael turned away every shot that he faced including a miraculous save with: 15 left on the clock affirming the Shutout.

"We had a tremendous effort from all our players," Patten said. "He [Barry] didn't get tested to often but when he did, he did what he had to do. That last save was great. That was him saying not only do I want the shutout, but I want it for my team."

The Bulldogs continue their hunt for the post season as they get ready to hit the road and travel to Iceworks in New Hyde Park to face Lynbrook Sunday, January 31 at 9:30 p.m.