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Lakeland’s offense fired on all cylinders as it routed Bayonne High School in a one-sided hockey game. A 3-0 start places Lakeland as a front runner in the Northern Conference White Division. Lakeland also showed to be a well coached and disciplined squad, most importantly on special teams.
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The hockey game started very evenly matched. Half way through the first period, Lakeland began to skate much better creating quality chances. As a result, Lakeland was rewarded when Tom Wachtler scored his first of three goals on a deflection of a Rory Specia slap shot from the line. Wachtler added a second late in the period to take a 2-0 lead and establish control of the game.
Lakeland scored three more in the second period, showcasing great special teams. They scored a short-handed goal, went 1-for-3 on power play chances and killed off 4 penalties in the game. Despite losing some key players to graduation, this team is still very in control and disciplined.
Lakeland reached the round of sixteen in the New Jersey Public B state tournament last year and is looking to surpass that feat. Coach Larry Mahurter commented that his team has played well to start the year, and praised the goaltending of Keith Gay who has two straight shutouts.
Lakeland is looking to continue this early success as it seeks a high seed in the Passaic County high school ice hockey tournament. Tonight's 7-0 win over a division rival proves that Lakeland has a chance to be a contender for that sports title. -- Emir Liguori for Jersey Sports Now
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