Bulldogs Sharpen Teeth Against Locust Valley-North Shore

Last night, the 10-8-1 Bellmore-Merrick Bulldogs hockey team took the ice against Locust Valley-North Shore at Newbridge Ice Rink for their last game of the regular season. The Bulldogs, playing for poise and solidifying Coach Chris Pattan's strategy for the playoffs, got on top early and defeated Locust Valley-North Shore, 4-0.

Following a tremendous rendition of the National Anthem by Mepham's very own Christina LaRocchia that would even have sent Simon Cowell to his knees, the Bulldogs got out to a quick lead. Showing quick hands for the Bulldogs was Mepham sophomore Allen West.

"He plays like he's 6-feet tall, this is a breakout year for him," said Patten.

Following a blocked wrist shot from the right side, West tucked away a juicy rebound with a backhander through the legs of the LVNS goaltender. West, small only in current stature, was one of the biggest contributors on the ice for the Bulldogs.  

"The puck was loose in front and I just took it and put it in," said West.  

West plays a game much like Islanders assistant captain Kyle Okposo, an aggressive player, a pest and a true old-time style player.

Calhoun senior Joe Gavin kept the scoring going early in the second when he extended the Bulldogs lead 2-0 on another dirty goal off of a fat rebound.

"Our strength is our team game. The teams that are successful, play together," said Patten.

Junior Evan Easquariello of Mepham High School also scored for the Bulldogs, giving them a commanding 3-0 lead by the end of the second period.

The Bulldogs, always competing with multiple lines, kept the pressure on all game long, wearing down LVNS who was playing iron man hockey with only three players on the bench, one of which was a backup goalie. LVNS should be proud of their efforts late, keeping it pretty even in the last period.

The Bulldogs had exceptional play by goalie Pat Bedell, who achieved a shutout in his first game back behind the pipes. Bedell, who had missed the last dozen or so games due to injury, looked sharp despite the layoff and seems to be the teams number one goalie going into the playoffs.

"We wanted him to get some work, this was a nice way to break off the rust," Patten said.

The Bulldogs goalie situation overall looks good due to the exceptional play by back up Mike Barry in his absence.

The Bulldogs have had their nose to the ice all season and now find themselves in possession on their first playoff game on Sunday, Feb. 21 at Bethpage Ice Rink, when they take on Cold Spring Harbor at 9 p.m.

"Were excited," Patten said. "The goal was to qualify, but we want to make some noise."

Another man behind the scenes of Bulldogs hockey is the Director of Statistical Operations Michael Powers. Michael's hard work and dedication should be appreciated by all Bulldogs.