Blair chilled by Germantown

The Blair Community ice hockey team is not affiliated or sponsored by the Montgomery Blair High School athletic program or Montgomery County Public Schools. The team is an independent group of Blair students.

Dec. 17, Rockville Ice Rink-

The Blair Community ice hockey team suffered their third loss of the season as they fell to Germantown 3-1 in a toughly fought game on Friday, Dec. 17. Blair's record drops to 1-3 in the Maryland Scholastic Hockey League.

Despite being out shot 41 to 18 the Blazers were able to stay in the game in part due to the stellar play of senior goalkeeper Graham Mathwers who had 38 saves. However, Blair slipped in the second period allowing all three of Germantown's goals and were unable to dig out of the hole in the third period.

Germantown appeared to be quicker and faster than Blair as they skated to numerous 2 v 1s and 3 v 2s. However, Mathews and junior defensemen Lee Shields were able to thwart many of these breakaways. Germantown was able to wear down Blair's defense with long offensive possessions as Blair struggle to clear the puck and transition.

Offensively Blair could not capitalize on opportunities and put shots in the back of the net. Blair was unable to convert on their three power plays including a nearly 1:30 two man advantage. Senior Brad Gee scored for Blair off an assist from senior Nathan Barrymore with 9:08 left in the third period, but this proved to be too little too late. Blair sorely missed the creative and fast play of their leading scorer senior Neal Vasilak who was not present for the game.

Mathews kept the game close despite Germantown's offensive onslaught. According to Mathews, he was able to get into a rhythm early in the game. "Once you make a few saves early on you get into a groove and if you get scored on it doesn't bother you because your confidence is up,” said Mathews.

Shields played an excellent game on defense disrupting the Germantown attack with his aggressive play and quick stick work. He even pushed up into the offensive zone and created several dangerous scoring opportunities for Blair.

Blair was able to limit their penalties to just two; against Washington International School they had eight infractions. However, Blair did hurt themselves by making costly turnovers that nearly led to Germantown goals.

Blair next takes on Bethesda-Chevy Chase at Wheaton Ice Rink on Tuesday, Jan. 4, 2005.