12/21--The Preview

Freehold Township (4-1) at Howell (2-0-3)
How they've fared:
The Patriots have looked strong early in the season, starting out 4-0 with wins against Steinart 8-4, Kinnelon 2-1, Freehold Boro 5-1, and Marlboro 4-2. Despite a recent loss against Ocean, Freehold Township has lived up to expectations and are extremely confident heading into the game against rival Howell.
The Rebels, despite some early season ties, still have not suffered a loss as their record stands at 2-0-3. Coming off a blowout 8-2 win against Freehold Boro, the Rebels look to continue their winning ways as they take on the Patriots on MSG Varsity.
Howell X-Factor: 'Goalie' (whoever that may be). In the 8-2 win against the Colonials, the natural backup James Bodeker played outstanding, so in my mind, the x-factor will be whoever plays between the posts. If it's usual starter Zack Peras, he needs to once again solidify his name as the best goalie, not only on the team, but in the shore, as he was last year. If Bodeker is sent into the crease, I'll look for him to be dominant again and make a serious run at the everyday starting position.
Freehold Township X-Factor: 'Composure'. Last season, the Rebels mercied the Patriots in both games, but for Township, there's no better time to outlaw the Rebels and take the place atop Shore 'C'. With Howell strugglnig to find a rythym, and a lack of a solid goaltender, Freehold Township needs to be patient and composed throughout the game. They will get their chances, but they will need to let the game come to them. If they don't, they have no shot.
Outcome: Howell defeats Freehold Township 7-3: The Rebels play extremely well with Peras in the net, but can't mercy the Patriots as they did last season. Despite Howell's somewhat early struggles, I just see them having way too much talent in the end to allow Township to have any real chance in this game.