Warren impressive in season opener. Rocketeers settle for tie against Mansfield.

There were a lot of questions about this year’s squad as the season drew near but after last night’s 2-2 tie against division rival Mansfield we may now have the answers we were looking for. With two new goalies, seven new freshmen, a new shifty sophomore and a new look on defense it was anybody’s guess on how this team would perform. Well if last night was any indication the Red Rocketeers are going to be better than fine. They appear to have that depth that can make the difference between championship teams and mere contenders.

As the crowd filed into Rink #2 at the Foxboro Sports Center the anticipation was thick in the air. The rowdy crowd was in full force and everyone was excited that opening night had finally arrived. It was standing room only.

From the opening face-off it was obvious that both teams came to play. Each team was looking to grab that first goal and get the early momentum but it was Mansfield who threatened early. After both teams exchanged scoring opportunities North was called for three separate penalties in the first period giving Mansfield ample opportunity to take the lead but freshman goalie Ryan Warren rose to the occasion. He made several big stops including a kick out save on a streaking Hornet who split Norths’ defense. 

In the second period both teams continued to exchange scoring chances but it was sophomore Hunter Sarro and Conner Ford that put North out front 1-0. At the 9 minute mark of the period Sarro picked up a loose puck in the neutral zone and raced down the right side drawing the lone defender before feeding a streaking Ford a nice saucer pass who one timed it past Mansfield net minder. The crowd went crazy. The lead was short-lived however on the ensuing face off Mansfield was able to get it deep and chip one in behind Warren.The period would end knotted at 1.

The third period was gritty and both teams had several chances to grab the lead but both goalies were locked in. Warren continued to stonewall his opponents and impress the crowd with his skill. The Rocketeers were rolling all three lines and were getting a lot of energy from each, especially from Sarro, Ford and Zammiellio. At the 7:25 mark Erik Clements was able to find a seam out in front of the Mansfield goalie and deliver a backhander that handcuffed him. As he tried to cover it up Captain Andrew Casson who was positioned on the left post managed to bang it home for the 2-1 lead. On the next possession Mansfield swarmed and tried to even it up but again it was Warren who had other ideas. 

It was several minutes later and after a Mansfield time out they were able to tie it. North won the defensive zone faceoff but could not keep possession along the boards.  Although it was a physical battle Mansfield was able to center it and chip in a floater at 3:59. That was how it ended. 

Although North may be a little disappointed with the outcome they have plenty to be excited about. The Rocketeers will face off against Bishop Feehan on Saturday evening at 7pm at the Foxboro Sports Center.