Hockey: Spartans squeeze past Springfield Cathedral, 3-2 St. Mary's likely squelched any lingering doubt regarding whether it merits Div. 1A tournament status later this month as it turned back Springfield Cathedral Saturday night at Connery Rink, 3-2.
Brendan Mageary's second goal of the game broke a 2-all tie with 2:23 to play as the Spartans (16-1-2) remained unbeaten in 18 games since a season-opening loss to Malden Catholic. It was a damaging loss for Cathedral (8-5-5) as it attempts to build its 1A resume down the stretch.
"This was as good of a game and team effort as we have played all year. From the goaltending to the defensemen to the forwards, every player gave their best effort and it showed," said coach Mark Lee.
The visitors broke a scoreless tie on Frank Crinella's unassisted strike at 12:23 of the second period, but Jarrod Fitzpatrick drew the Spartans even with just three seconds left in the stanza, converting Connor Parent's set-up. Mageary gave St. Mary's its first lead at 3:30 of the final period but the Panthers pulled even on Cullin Geary's goal with 7:51 to play. St. Mary's sophomore goalie Bailey MacBurnie continued to shine with 17 saves and Jordan Manthorne had two assists
