1/22--The Ultimate X-Factor

For all hockey teams, the player with the biggest impact is the goalie.

For the Howell Rebels (9-2-4), it is no different.

After being named the regular starter early in 2008, Zack Peras started virtually every game for the 2008-2009 Howell Rebels, who finished 19-4-1 and won the Dowd Cup.

In his sophomore campaign, the trip for Peras has not been as easy.

Despite starting out the season with a 23-save shutout, Peras struggled shortly after and was benched three games into the season in favor of James Bodeker, who lead Howell to an 8-2 win against Freehold Borough.

Earning his job back through impressive work in practice, a motivated Peras tallied two more victories before going down for three weeks with a concussion.

Kyle Conrad filled in nicely as a third string goalie, winning three games and not losing in the absence of Peras.

Since his return from the concussion, the sophomore standout has become a new man. Coming off two much needed victories against teams atop the Shore 'B', Howell has been rejuvenated and are ready to finish the season strongly.

If the Rebels want any chance at even returning to the Dowd Cup, however, it'll have to be behind the Peras of last year; with his confident swagger, great attitude, and most importantly, his wins.