Hilltoppers Suffer Season-Ending Loss to Verona

The Game: The boys ice hockey team lost to a tough Verona High School team 2-1 in the second round of the NJSIAA Public B Hockey Tournament on Thursday at Warinanco Arena. The loss ends a successful season for Summit who and won the first round of the NJSIAA tournament by before losing a close game to Verona.

The entire game was very physical as both teams played great defense. After the first period, the game remained scoreless. In the opening minute of the second period, Verona scored and took the lead 1-0.

Summit had a few power play opportunities in the second period after two Verona players were sent to the penalty box, however they could not put the puck in the net.

Verona played hard-hitting defense the entire game and their goalie was outstanding. Verona managed to score again in the third period on a power play goal to make the score 2-0. The Hilltoppers scored their only goal of the game with a minute to go but Verona held on to win the game and advance to the next round in the tournament.

The Players: Jeff Wycoff scored the only goal for Summit to avoid the shutout. Senior goalie Jackson Stuckey was solid in the net and the Hilltopper defensive effort was stellar. With only three seniors graduating from this year's team, Tim Yager, Mike Tsiang and Stuckey, Summit should have another great  group of players returning next season.

Up Next: The loss marks the end of the season for the Hilltoppers. They end the year 19-3-3.