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After hitting a tough patch a few weeks ago, the Kinnelon hockey team has picked up its play and is starting to see the results. The Colts had an impressive showing in their 4-1 win over Mendham by playing disciplined and smart hockey. They were able to win by capitalizing on the few clear chances.
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After a slow start to the game, the Colts earned a power play after they were able to pin the Minutemen in their zone. Forty seconds later Junior Billy Huber took a slap shot that went through the Minutemen goalie’s pads as the Colts took the 1-0 lead. The Colts continue to pressure and had two very good individual efforts that came up empty. The Minutemen began to create some chances and right before the end of the period they were rewarded. Billy Foshay put a shot past Jeff Molner to even the match.
The Minutemen continued to be in control and kept their tempo to start the second period. The Colts puck handling ability and speed gave them a breakaway that the Crampton brothers didn’t waste. Senior Peter Crampton scored on a backhander off a feed from his Brother Mike Crampton. The goal was the game-changer as the Colts never looked back. A minute later Justin McLaughlin scored off a nice feed to extend the lead to 3-1 to end the second period.
The Colts and the Minutemen started the final period with hard hitting exchanges. As the physical play intensified, the game became more scrappy. The Minutemen were able to create some decent chances but couldn't beat Molner. However, on a rush up ice the Colts scored their fourth as McLaughlin fired home a wrister.
Coach Jeff Myhren noted that after a couple of loses and draws early in the season, the team has been playing much better. He said the team is dealing well with the high-quality opposition of the Mennen Division. The Colts are making some noise with a run that has propelled their record to 6-2-2 in division play and 8-2-2 over all.
The Colts are focusing for now on trying to win the Mennen, but they also have their eyes on a return to the Prudential Center, where they won the Public Group B state ice hockey title a year ago. If they can maintain their current level of play, don't bet against them. -- Emir Liguori for Jersey Sports Now
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