The Varsity Wildcat Hockey team got back to their winnings ways after beating two Flint Metro League opponents this past week.
The week got started with a 5-0 victory over Lapeer West. They were led by sophomore Nick Hocker, who had one goal and one assist in the game. Senior Will Buday, freshman Jimmy Wallington, junior Tim Dutzy and sophomore Nolan Chapman each scored a goal for Oxford.
Assisting were freshman Kevin Dutzy and seniors Blaine Marney and Dennis Siitari.
The shutout was senior goalie Corey Hrischuk’s second of the season; both coming against West. He stopped 21 shots.
Head Coach Dave Hague noted that the victory was a nice way to close out the rivalry with West.
‘This was a nice game for us,? he said.
He added that his defensemen played exceptionally well. ‘We’re young back there and its nice to see those boys start to develop. We had good pressure in their zone and Hrischuk was strong in net.?
Hrischuk continued his strong play against Swartz Creek on Saturday, Dec. 23. He stopped 26 of 27 shots in the Wildcats 2-1 victory over the Dragons.
Chapman got the scoring started in the first period with his fifth goal of the season. He was assisted by Buday and Hocker. The Wildcats second goal came in the third period when sophomore Alex Kaks took a pass from sophomore Garrett Kovacic and fired it past the Dragons? goalie. Siitari also assisted on the play.
‘This was one of our most complete games of the season,? said Hague. ‘I was impressed with our competitive level and specifically our forecheck. We brought a lot of pressure into their zone.?
He added that this was a ‘breakout game for his defensemen.?
‘It’s been very enjoyable watching our young defense develop and they did a great job in this game,? he added.
The victory gave the Wildcats sole possession of second place in the FML after coming into the game tied for second with the Dragons. They are currently two points behind first place Fenton, who has 16.
Overall, the Wildcats are 11-4.
The team’s 7-1 in the FML.