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Lakeland’s speed and physical play propelled them into the Passaic County ice hockey tournament finals for the second year in a row after a 2-1 semifinal win over West Milford High School. The Highlanders proved their early-season success is no fluke but ultimately couldn't hold off the Lancers' sustained pressure.
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After killing off a West Milford power play early in the hockey contest, Lakeland was able to take the lead on a Tom Wachtler goal from a pretty give-and-go with Andrew Niedzwiecki. Lakeland maintained control thereafter and ended the period with an offensive outburst, however, West Milford and goalie Kyle Letsche were able to keep the puck out of the net.
West Milford came out skating much better in the second period. The offense seemed to be more organized and created a few quality chances. Both teams were unable to convert on their only power play opportunities of the period, but late in the stanza a great individual effort by Collin McDonald tied the game for West Milford. McDonald skated through the Lakeland’s defense and beat the goalie on a low far post wrister.
Lakeland was the more aggressive hockey team to start the third period, creating a few good chances and pinning West Milford in their zone. About midway through the period, Niedzwiecki scored off a scramble during a delayed penalty on West Milford for what proved to be the winning goal.
Lancer goalie Keith Gay played well despite conceding his first goal of the entire season. While Lakeland outshot the Highlanders, Gay came up big when called upon.
This is the second year in a row that Lakeland (7-0) has reached the finals. Last year they came up short, losing to Clifton, 3-2. "Hopefully, we learned from that," said coach Larry Mahurter.
The stage is set, Lakeland will face DePaul who knocked off Clifton in the second semifinal contest. This matchup of the top two seeds promises to be an exciting New Jersey high school sports event. -- Emir Liguori for Jersey Sports Now
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