The WA Girls’ Ice Hockey team experienced a tough 6-0 loss in a game against the Andover Golden Warriors on Saturday, Feb. 1 at the Nashoba Valley Olympia. The Warriors’ win made WA’s overall season record 0-4.
During the first period, both teams played quickly and had a lot of energy when entering the ice. Although the initial puck drop was won by Andover, the puck traveled to both sides of the rink throughout the following minutes. Even so, WA had the puck on their defensive end for the majority of the period. The teams both had a tough offense, which resulted in boarding from both sides.
The first three goals were made in the first period, the fourth was made nearing the end of the second period, and the final two were made in the third period. One major part of the Golden Warriors’ strong gameplay was being able to effectively pass and assist other players while on the rink. Despite WA’s inability to score, they displayed effective passing and assists to other players while on the rink. One notable assist was from sophomore Jackie Chase, who was able to control the puck well after having taken possession of it. Andover continued to score goals, despite WA’s tough defensive and offensive playing.
“We’re mostly focused on breakouts, positions and just practicing and getting better with time,” freshman Adriana Butland said.
Despite the outcome of the game, WA goalies, sophomore Lexi McDonough and junior Keira Tucker, never gave up in the net as they continuously made efforts to prevent Andover from scoring. Tucker defended the goal during the first two periods, and switched out with McDonough during the third. Both goalies were able to save the puck multiple times throughout the game.
Even during the last few minutes of the final period, WA’s audience continued to urge on the girls and show their enthusiasm for the game.
The team’s next game is set to be played on Feb. 15 against Waltham High School in Nashoba Valley Olympia at 3:00 pm.
