12/26--The Recap

Final Score: Howell Rebels (4-0-3) 4, Marlboro Mustangs (3-4-1) 3
Marlboro Team Analysis: the Mustangs played very impressivley on the offensive side of the puck, and almost all night they played score-for-score with Howell, but not shot-for-shot. Marlboro proved to a lot of people, as they, for a second straight time, played right alongside with Howell, but also displayed that they are not quite at the level of the Rebels, but are without a doubt taking a step in the right direction. I stressed team defense in the preview, and their defense struggled a little, giving up two powerplay goals to the Rebels and struggled as the puck sat in their end most of the night. Overall: B-
Howell Team Analysis: The Rebels played much better than their original meeting against the Mustangs, but were still far from their top game. Howell scored from both lines, as Liero, Peras, Acquaviva, and Ramos all tallied goals for the Rebs. Extremely impressive powerplay, quarterbacked, as usual, by defensemen Eddie Pyskaty, who played another 35+ minute game. Although head coach Bill Daley may not be too excited with this performance, it's a win nonetheless, and Howell will build off their still-undefeated record at 4-0-3. Overall: B
What's next: The Rebels want get much of a layoff, as they have two days off before they hit the ice to face-off against rival Manalapan, in a game the Rebels must have. Earlier this season, Ramos lead a Howell comeback against the Braves as they ended in a tie at 3. Still, I think the little time off the ice is a good thing, as Howell needs to be able to stay in a winning mentality, and will need to play strong against Manalapan on Tuesday, December 29th.