Boys’ Hockey Beats Down Deerfield
On Saturday, the boys’ varsity hockey team hosted Deerfield in a highly anticipated match. After tying Deerfield 1-1 last season, the team was fired up to come out with a serious win. This was exactly what Exeter accomplished, topping Big Green 4-0. This win boosted their impressive season record of 24-4-1.
The boys went into the game prepared with a winning attitude. “Every game we have the same mindset to do everything we can to win,” lower Jacob Matthews said. Lower Jeremy Abraham agreed with Matthews and also explained that a recent loss fueled the team further. “We were coming off a tough loss the night before and wanted a win,” he said.
While all of Big Red’s players played exceptionally, Matthews highlighted senior and co-captain Kyle Jadatz for the amazing energy and skill he displayed throughout the game. “Jadatz set the tone with some big hits,” he said. Upper Michael Pitts also commented on Jadatz’s plays, saying, “Kyle stood out, blocking about a million shots just like he does every game.” These good plays showed the results with their shutout score.
After battling hard in the first period, both teams remained tied 0-0. Heading into the second, the boys were ready to separate themselves from Deerfield. Big Red scored the first goal of the game through post-graduate Peter Scheschareg. This goal set the tone for the rest the game as the team built upon their momentum. Pitts also commented on the play, saying, “We had been all over them, and we got the bounce we needed at last. Everyone, including the team, the coaches, and the fans, we’re excited.” The boys ended that period with a score of 2-0 and were ready to roll in the third.
Pitts elaborated that the team was determined to finish the game strongly. “We know the importance of finishing games when we’re up, so we came into the third period with the same mentality; do whatever it takes to win,” he said. Boys’ varsity hockey ended up getting their last two goals of the game in that period, and the team’s strong defense left Deerfield goalless.
It was Exeter’s senior night, where all the graduating players were celebrated for their contributions to the team, motivating the team to come out of the game successful.This game also marked their last home game during their Exeter careers. Abraham praised the seniors, saying, “All the seniors played great, and it was good to see as they have to lead our team throughout the year.”
The team is now looking forward to the final game of the season outside of playoffs against Andover. Having already beaten Andover 6-1 earlier in the season, the team remains confident. However, the memory of their tough loss at last year’s E/a remains in their minds. Matthews described the team’s plan to continue to work diligently, saying, “We’re gonna take it one game at a time and keep working our hardest to get wins.”