SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Saratoga Springs ice hockey squad was well aware that they were facing the most formidable offensive team in Section 2, Burnt Hills/Ballston Spa, on Thursday night.
Despite this, the Blue Streaks remained unfazed. Their solid defense and well-timed shots led them to a triumphant 3-0 victory in the Section 2 Division 1 semifinals.
“This was a collective effort, a testament to our team defense strategy,” expressed Saratoga Springs coach Tim Horst. “We emphasized in the locker room the importance of every player. We operate with three lines and six deep, and each one of them is crucial to our success.”
The scoring was initiated by Jayson Carpenter, who netted Saratoga Springs’ first goal towards the end of the first period, with an assist from Daniel Klochaney.
Liam Chartrand then took the spotlight, scoring two consecutive goals for the Blue Streaks. His first goal came in the second period, assisted by Patrick Temple.
Chartrand’s second goal was scored in the third period, with roughly two minutes left in the game. This goal solidified Saratoga Springs’ lead with a three-goal advantage.
“Scoring that goal was an exhilarating experience,” Chartrand shared. “Especially when we’re leading 2-0 and they’re pressuring us. Scoring that third goal is like the final nail in the coffin. It was an incredible feeling.”
Xander Clarke, the goalie for Saratoga Springs, made an impressive 36 saves in the shutout, while Kasch Kinowski of Burnt Hills/Ballston Spa made 24 saves.
Throughout the season, Burnt Hills/Ballston Spa had been the highest scoring team in Section 2, with a total of 120 team goals. This marked only the second time they have been shut out this season, with the previous instance being an 8-0 defeat to Saratoga Springs on Jan. 5.
With this victory, the Blue Streaks (13-8-1) are set to face Shenendehowa (17-4-1) in the Section 2 Division 1 championship game. The game is scheduled for Sunday at 5:45 p.m. at Union College’s Messa Rink.
Burnt Hills/Ballston Spa 0 0 0 — 0
Saratoga Springs 1 1 1 — 3
BH/BS scoring: None. Saratoga Springs scoring: Carpenter 1-0; Chartrand 2-0; Temple 0-1; Klochaney 0-1. Goalies: BH/BS, Kinowski 24 saves; Saratoga Springs, Clarke, 36 saves.
Great win for Saratoga Springs Boys’ Hockey Team! #agree
Great victory for Saratoga Springs Boys Hockey Team! #agree