Site Editor posted on February 18, 2015 21:38
Clearview got two goals from Robert Penrod and played a smothering game defensively as they defeated Cherokee 3-1 in the playoff opener for both teams. Clearly the View’s game plan was evident and that was to concentrate on shutting down the league’s top player in Boomer Miller and clog his passing lane as he looks to create opportunities. Penrod gave the View a 1-0 lead midway through the first period scoring on the power play as he put home a shot by Matt Manzo. Penrod made it 2-0 early in the second period scoring a short-handed goal on great hustle by Anthony Dellerose. Stealing the puck at center ice, Dellerose broke in all alone and after being stopped, he stuck with the play and found Penrod in front who deposited his second goal into the net.
Anthony Salvatore would get Cherokee to within 2-1 late in the period and new life and when the third period began with an early power play opportunity, Cherokee seemed to have life, but big saves by Max Ramos kept them off the board. Nick Ramos gave Clearview the cushion they needed at the seven minute mark with Dellerose getting the assist. With a two goal lead, the View did not need any more goals and just continue to pressure the puck. Cherokee had another power play at the ten minute mark, but failed to get a shot off. The game ended with some testiness and misconducts handed out, but overall the officials did a nice job.
Notes: Cherokee will now face Moorestown with the winner advancing and the loser going home. Township and Clearview will meet with the winner advancing into the championship.
Written by Mike Costantino