The Eastern Hockey League Premier (EHLP) crowned its 2021 champion after the New Jersey 87’s defeated the Railers Jr. Hockey Club by a score of 5-2 on Sunday.
After establishing a strong forecheck early on in the contest, 87’s forward Michael LoRicco put home a one-timer from the high-slot to give New Jersey the lead. While Cole Moore displayed strong play between the pipes, LoRicco tallied his second goal midway through the second period.
At the time of the second goal, New Jersey had outshot the Jr. Railers 26-14 and dictated the pace of the game. At the 14:04 juncture of the second period, the 87s Hugh McGuigan scored to make it a 3-0 game.
Yet, the Jr. Railers took advantage of prime opportunities towards the end of the frame. The Jr. Railers cashed in twice, one on an extended man advantage, after Jayden Blackburn and Jake Barcelou found the back of the net. The tallies were recorded within a 26-second span and provided the squad with plenty of hope for the third period.
It seemed that the 87’s had other plans, though.
Moore turned away all nine shots that he faced, and the 87’s recorded two goals – one of which was at the 3:43 mark of the frame which gave NJ a 4-2 lead. It was also scored by McGuigan. The second goal came late in the period on a power play.
After a tight period and well played contest from both teams, the buzzer sounded and the 87’s earned their first-ever title.
Additionally, Moore was awarded as the league’s MVP for the Frozen Finals.
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