By Sean Simmons
RED BANK—The Red Bank Catholic ice hockey team picked up an impressive 4-1 victory against Toms River North during Senior Night at the Red Bank Armory Ice Complex on Tuesday night.
“We have been playing very good hockey and the kids are playing more aggressive,” RBC head coach Ken Carlson said. “Our defense has been doing a great job.”
The Caseys (9-5-5) drew first blood with 4:47 left in the first period on a goal by junior forward Kyle Gatta. Gatta’s goal was assisted by senior forwards Trevor Grossman and Mike Stickle.
RBC extended their lead to 2-0 on a goal by Grossman with 11:20 left in the second period. Grossman’s goal was assisted by Gatta and Stickle.
“Gatta, Grossman and Stickle have really been playing well together,” Carlson said.
A power play goal by Stickle with 7:45 left in the second period gave RBC a 3-0 lead.
The Mariners (12-5-2) cut the deficit to 3-1 with close to nine minutes remaining in the third period when Ryan Burr blasted a slap shot past RBC senior goaltender Chet Tooker.
An empty net power play goal by Grossman with 1:13 left in the game made the final score 4-1.
RBC held a 32-23 advantage in shots and Tooker made 22 saves.
“Chet has been playing really well for us and our goal is to defend our Handchen Cup title,” Carlson said.
The next home game for the Caseys is on February 14th at 8:15 p.m. against Seton Hall Prep.
