As Westfield trudges through their busy five-game week, they continue pulling out wins dominating their opponents with powerful offense and unwavering defense. The Blue Devils outshot West Essex 55-20, in addition, junior goalkeeper Troy Conover had a 20 save shutout keeping the Blue Devils in control and leading to their 3-0 victory over the Knights.
Westfield had played West Essex in their first game of the season and dominated 7-2. Coming into this game, the Blue Devils were running on momentum from their prior nine-goal win just two days before. Although Westfield only finished three of their opportunities, their momentum is still soaring as they make their way through a busy week.
Junior Tyler Bergman captured the first goal of the game halfway through the first period, finishing a pass from senior teammate Jackson Chicola. Head coach Joe Bertucci has made some lineup changes over the last few games and this line produced all three of Westfields goals against West Essex. Bergman said, “Our line really clicked today, we were getting used to it yesterday and we loved to see the execution today.”
The next goal came in the second period from junior Andrew Lisnock, assisted by Bergman. Lisnock finished a one-time shot, rifling it high into the back of the net, widening the score gap to a two-goal lead and reducing the stress of the Blue Devils. The third goal came late in the third period from Chicola to solidify the game for Westfield.
In between these goals, the Blue Devils had many opportunities and performed their breakouts almost flawlessly. However, the defense is often overlooked. Conover held down the fort for his team, coming up with a multitude of clutch fast-break saves. This was Conover’s first shutout of the season. Bertucci said, “Anytime you have a goaltender like Troy and he plays the way he did tonight, we’re going to beat the majority of the teams in the state.” Bergman added, “Troy played awesome tonight and I am so proud that he got the 0 at the end of the game.”
The team continues to grow their chemistry each time they are out on the ice together. Westfield have two more games this week that they hope to continue to grow from, with the county tournament coming up in the back of their minds. Bertucci said, “This win streak feels good, the idea was to play our best hockey when it matters most and with counties coming up I think we are continuing to build momentum.”
Senior captain Jack Conrod will also be returning from an injury in the next week. He has been watching his team mesh from the bench and is ecstatic to get back on the ice with them. Conrod said, “I’m pumped to be back with the boys, we’re playing great and on the road to a state championship.”
