Greyhounds Hockey Wrap Up PIHL Regular Season

Wilmington wrapped up its regular season with a 5-4 loss to McDowell at Brady’s Run Ice Arena on Tuesday.

Ellwood City was well represented on the Co-Op program with two seniors – Craig Patterson and Tye Tomak — along with underclassmen Anthony Popovich, Dante DeCaria, Connor Michaels, Gage Campbell, Jonah Schaefer, and Owen Gaydosz

“We had a great bounce back year from the past two seasons and really turned the trajectory of the program in the right direction this year with our seniors,” said head coach Scott McKee.

The Greyhounds regular season featured several peaks and valleys. After starting the regular season 1-6 the team won six of eight contests, with two three game win streaks and a curcial 5-3 victory over rival Neshannock on December 15th

Connor Michaels earned the victory with 30 saves while Alex Rodgers and Jacob Otto each netted two goals for the Greyhounds.

The victory over the Lancers was the first win over Wilmington’s hometown rival in four years.

“It was a huge win for our players and organization,” said McKee.

Their second three-game win streak was capped by a 9-3 victory over Carrick to pull its record to 7-8 early in February.

Brody Young popped off for a hat trick and five points while Popovich tallied four points and Tomak added three points in the home victory on February 2nd. Craig Patterson earned the victory with 18 saves.

“Popovich stepped up this year and we expect big things next year from Anthony,” said McKee.

The team was then faced with a three game road trip and could not collect another victory in its regular season losing its last five games to finish 7-12-1 on the season.

Ringgold and Neshannock tied for first place in the PIHL Varsity D2 Blue Division with records of 13-4-2.

Craig Patterson and Connor Michaels played well in goal this year according their coach. Michaels posted a .874 save percentage and Patterson a .831.

Junior Anthony Popovich finished the year with 25 points (18GP 12 G 13 A) good for second on the team.

Tomak added 13 points in 18 games with 5 power play points.

“Wilmington Hockey appreciates the support of our Ellwood City athletes and looks to continue to grow the game and our athletes in the community,” concluded McKee.

PHOTOS SOURCE: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2172070453116111