1/16--A Lack of Respect

Howell is widely considered one of the top public teams in the state, widely because of their tremendous run last season, winning the Dowd Cup. However, since the streak of three straight ties early this season, Howell has continuously fallen in the state rankings, with them falling the lowest in the most recent ranking, 30.
To the state's credit, Howell has not played up to most expectations--certainly not theres.
But, to Howell's credit, they do have just two losses against a fair schedule for a team in their second season, and they do not just face Shore 'C' teams.
They went skate for skate with Monsignor Donovan, a top-notch private school that annually recruits kids to play hockey.
They defeated and shut out Brick Memorial, a school that is usually among the best in the conference and shore, and has chemistry that is impossible to have in the land-of-the-Rebels.
And, as expected, there is a wide lack of respect for the Shore 'C' division in itself. New teams, yes, but bad teams, no. With the exception of Freehold Boro, the division consists of four teams who are extremely competitive, have very improved goalies from last year, and are likely sending three of those teams to the State Playoffs.
Still, for Howell the two upcoming games will have a huge affect on there rankings, and will show how good they really are.
On Tuesday, Howell will face-off against rival Wall in their first meeting since Howell ousted Wall in the Dowd Cup last year, becoming Shore B/C champs. Wall hasn't forgotten about the first-year program that stopped them from hoisting the plaque, and will be out to beat Howell. The Knights aren't shabby at all themselves, ranked 32nd, with a record of 11-1-1.
After almost a two week layoff, Howell will take on Middletown South, in a game that could mean a lot seeding-wise for the State Playoffs. The Eagles of Middletown South are ranked 19th overall, with a record of 7-2-2.
With Howell's track record, and their schedule coming up, I'm challenging you, as a fan, writer, or just a reader, to write off the Rebels. It will come near impossible.
Trust me, I've tried.