12/4/2012 6:00:00 AM

Boys hockey: Wildcats cut down in overtime

Keryluk

Jeremy Jones
Sports editor
 

The last time the Verona boys hockey team was on the ice left a bad taste.

Despite facing a bit of rebuilding this season – after graduating almost a third of last year’s state semifinal team – the Wildcats appeared to be in prime position to earn a victory in their season debut Nov. 27 at Stevens Point’s KB Willett Arena.

Sporting a two-goal advantage through one period and adding another in the second as Zac Keryluk, Charlie Parker and Liam Schmitt all picked up goals, the Wildcats surrendered three goals in the second and SPASH eventually won the game 4-3 in overtime.

“After a few second-period break-downs in our defensive end, our guys played much better in the third but just couldn’t get one by a very good SPASH goaltender,” Verona head coach Joel Marshall said.

Knotted at 3-all, the 10 minute overtime period started at 4-on-4 as a result of penalties. Just over 2 minutes in SPASH put back a rebound goal on the power play to end the game.

Austin Haas scored two of the Panthers’ three-second period goals and Nathan Siclovan turned in 31 saves .

Nolan Kepler set up two goals for the Wildcats, while goaltender Jon Fiala stopped 19 of 23 shots on net in his first varsity start.

“Jon performed very well and came up with a few big saves, including shutting down a breakaway opportunity early in the game,” Marshall said. “Overall, it was a good and tough, first game for our team SPASH is a good team with a majority of their lineup being experienced returning varsity players.

After wisconsinprephockey.com ranked Verona No. 4 in the pre-season polls, SPASH was determined to make a statement after receiving a honorable mention spot.

“For only having six returning varsity players in our lineup, I am proud of the chances our guys created,” Marshall said. “Hopefully, with a little more experience they will be able to capitalize on those opportunities in the next couple games and build some confidence.”

The Wildcats return to the ice in search of their first win this Thursday against Big Eight Conference rival Janesville. The puck drops inside the Eagles Nest at 7 p.m.

“I have some big expectations for the team this year, and I think we learned a lot about ourselves in the first game,” Marshall said. “We will need to tighten up our defensive play and special teams as the season goes.

“If we get steady production from our top guys and some new faces gain some confidence, we will be just fine.”