RSS 2.0 FeedThursday, February 2, 2012, L&M Publications Sports
Bulldogs hockey team hits rough patch as playoffs loom
Streak ends with loss to Long Beach.
by Eric Homburger
The Bellmore-Merrick Bulldogs saw their three-game winning streak come to an end at the hands of Long Beach on Sunday night at Long Beach Arena, and to East Williston at Newbridge Arena in Bellmore on Monday night.
One night after a tough loss to Long Beach, the Bulldogs hosted Liberty Division leaders East Williston at Newbridge Arena. This was the first and only meeting between the two teams.
The first period started off a bit slow. Each team got off a few shots, but due to superb defense and goaltending from both teams, it was a relatively uneventful first period of play.
Bulldogs score first
With 20 seconds remaining in the first, captain Nick Abbene deflected a Joe Hannon slapshot into the back of the net, putting the Bulldogs ahead, 1-0.
In the second period both teams continued their solid defense, and each goaltender had his fair share of nice saves. But with 4:46 left in the second, an East Williston player got one by Bulldogs goalie Chris Silvester, tying the game at one.
As the third period began both teams showed frustration at the lack of scoring. Instead of playing solid defensive hockey, both teams focused on getting to the opposing team’s net and putting points up on the board.
Two minutes into the third, Abbene found the net again, putting the Bulldogs back on top, 2-1.
After Abbene’s second goal of the game, East Williston took full control of the game. With 9:31 remaining in the game, East Williston scored its second goal of the game, tying the game at two.
Defense disintegrates
Taking full advantage of a disintegrating Bulldogs defense, East Williston then scored two more goals, giving them a two- goal lead, and a 4-2 win.
It was a rough game for the Bulldogs.
The Bulldogs have two games left in the regular season, tonight at 7:15 p.m. against Port Washington at Bethpage Arena, and Monday, February 6, against Syosset at Newbridge Arena, at 9 p.m.
After those two games the playoffs start, so it is important for the Bulldogs to finish the regular season with a win. Just as in any sport, it’s always good to head into the playoffs after a win or two.
Come out and support the Bulldogs as they prepare to end the season with a win!
