The OPRF Hockey Club didn’t let a 4-0 drubbing at the hands of No. 2-ranked Naperville Central on Saturday bring them down when the Huskies played host to Providence on Sunday. OPRF vented its frustration over the loss by pelting the Celtics with numerous shots on goal, leading to a 4-2 victory.
The turn around was evident early on as most of the first period was played in the Huskies’ offensive zone. At the end of the first period, the score was 1-0 in favor of the Huskies, but they outshot the Celtics 17-9.
Defenseman Adam Palmore scored the first Huskies’ goal with 19 seconds left in the period. Jack Brofman was credited with the assist.
The second period was played a bit more evenly, although the Huskies came out on top. Al McDonnell scored at 12:55 after taking a pass from Kenny Javor. Brett Newman scored with 1:08 left to go with Al McDonnell and Phil O’Connor assisting.
Providence managed to score with 29 seconds left in the second period.
Both the second and third periods were marred by penalties. Before the night was out, Providence ended up with game misconduct for the excessive numbers of penalties, while OPRF fell short of the maximum number allowed.
In the third period, both teams played aggressively with neither team willing to concede the game. Providence scored again with 6:09 left in the period on a rare penalty shot. The play was set up when the advancing Redhawk forward was tripped while in the act of shooting. Thomas McDonnell came back and beat Huskies goalie Bob Grayson on the stick side. But that was the last goal Grayson, who stopped 33 of 35 shots on goal, would give up to the Celtics.
OPRF added a security goal with 3:26 left in the game when Newman scored off an assist from Dan Miscovic.
On Sunday, the club will hold its annual Skate with the Huskies Night at Ridgeland Common. The junior varsity and varsity teams will play a scrimmage game beginning at 4:30 p.m. Following the game, the club invites all of its fans (young and old) to strap on their skates and skate with the Huskies. Admission is $3 for adults and $2 for students, with all proceeds benefiting the Bolin-Cooper Scholarship Fund.
A press release contributed to this report.
