By Joshua Boyd / USPHLPremier.com
The Springfield Pics are Nationals-bound as they have defeated the Islanders Hockey Club in two straight games, both in overtime, to advance to the #USPHLNationals in Wayne, N.J., March 20-24.
“It’s an unbelievable feeling as it was the goal all season,” said Pics Head Coach Rob Bonneau. “To win two overtime games back to back against a very good IHC team is incredibly it could have easily been them in both games. Both teams are very evenly matched. I want to congratulate the Islanders on great season as they were a great team.”
While this is not the first time the Pics have qualified for the Nationals, it will be the first time they get to play a full run. Five years ago, almost to the day, they were part of the Nationals that were canceled on the first day due to the COVID pandemic.
The Pics were 3-2 winners in overtime after originally giving up a 2-0 lead. Jacob Carey and Ryan Zabchuk scored back to back in the first 44 seconds of the game. The Islanders countered with 1:00 remaining in the first and tied the game in the second. At the 6:43 mark of the overtime, Maverick Labonte scored the #OTGWG to advance the Pics to the Nationals. The Pics have also. officially solidified the No. 5 seed at Nationals.
In net, Troy Huber stopped 37 of 39 for the Pics, and Thomas Cafarelli stopped 36 of 37 shots in relief.
“This was a goal from day one to win the New England Division. Our players sacrificed and worked hard. It is one of the closest teams we ever had, and our leaders are the reason,” Bonneau said. “We will enjoy this and get back to work as we still have Nationals to look forward to against all the division winners.”
