Westies shut out by EC/Glastonbury/SW
WH/SHA suffers third straight loss
By MIKE MADERA
Westie Blue
(January 27, 2016) - One night after a tough loss, the West Haven/Sacred Heart Academy girls hockey team was faced with the task of playing against a tough East Catholic/Glastonbury/South Windsor team. Unable to stop Taylor Markstein, the Westies fell 4-0 to drop to 6-6-1 on the year.
Gabi Prisco (20) and the Westies fell to East Catholic/Glastonbury/South Windsor, January 27, 2016. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
"I thought we played well tonight," West Haven/SHA coach Erin Blake said. "We played with the heart we have been looking for. I thought we were in the game, but the bounces did not go our way again. If we continue to play this way, the bounces will start to go our way."
Celina Condon (4) and the Westies fell to East Catholic/Glastonbury/South Windsor, January 27, 2016. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
Trailing 1-0 after one period of play, the Westies watch as Markstein scored 6:36 into the second and 4:13 later for a 3-0 lead. Markstein completed the natural hat trick with her third goal 1:03 into the third for a 4-0 East Catholic advantage.
"Our penalty kill played well," Blake said. "I think the girls competed hard and are ready for he final stretch of the season."
Kyleen Crowe and the Westies fell to East Catholic/Glastonbury/South Windsor, January 27, 2016. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
Kyleen Crowe made 29 saves in the loss for West Haven/SHA, which was outshot 33-11 in the game.
Westies falls to Amity/NH/Cheshire
Early deficit too much to overcome in 4-1 loss
By MIKE MADERA
Westie Blue
(January 26, 2016) - The West Haven/Sacred Heart Academy girls hockey team knew it was in for a tough battle Tuesday evening when it traveled to Shelton to play Amity/North Haven/Cheshire. After playing the undefeated team to a one-goal game earlier in the season, the Westies fell behind early and suffered a 4-1 loss.
"The girls shot the puck, but we couldn't catch a break," West Haven/Sacred Heart Academy coach Erin Blake said after her team fell to 6-5-1 with its second straight loss. "We have tough games coming up this week. We need to play with the heart we have been showing in the past few games to finish off the season strong."
The Westies were in chase mode from the start as Erin Owes scored 5 minutes, 30 seconds into the game and Bailey McNamara added another with 3:23 left in the opening period for a 2-0 Amity/North Haven/ Cheshire lead.
Shannon Reilly put West Haven/SHA in a 3-0 hole with 6:07 left in the second, before the Westies finally got on the scoreboard.
Just 1:08 after Reilly's goal, Shannon Siclari scored off assists from Lindsey Gerzabek and Carlie Tammaro to get the Westies within 3-1.
Shannon Siclari (8), seen here earlier this season, and the Westies fell to Amity/North Haven/Cheshire, January 26, 2016. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
That would be as close as West Haven/SHA would get as Gina Driscoll scored with 8:20 left to ice the game for Amity/North Haven/Cheshire.
Kyleen Crowe made 28 saves in the loss for West Haven/SHA.
Hamden blanks Westies
Shutout sees Westies drop to 6-4-1
By MIKE MADERA
Westie Blue
(January 20, 2016) - The West Haven/SHA girls hockey team was looking forward to its contest with rival Hamden. Having won two in a row and with six wins already on the season, the Westies had plenty to look forward to.
Francesca Criscuolo (14), seen here against Notre Dame-Fairfield/Foran, and the Westies fell to Hamden, January 20, 2016. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
Unfortunately for the Westies, Hamden put 51 shots on goal and came away with a 5-0 victory Wednesday evening at the Edward L. Bennett Rink in West Haven. With the loss, West Haven/SHA fell to 6-4-1 on the year.
"We knew coming into this game how tough Hamden would be," West Haven/Sacred Heart Academy coach Erin Blake said. "Going into the second period scoreless was evidence of how hard our girls worked tonight. Kyleen Crowe kept us in the game with a number of fantastic saves, including a couple of breakaways. Our defense of Gabi Prisco, Veronica Lynn, and Carlie Tammaro, played a strong game. Every forward played well, including Lindsey Gerzabek, Francesca Criscuolo, Celina Condon, Shannon Siclari, Alycia Sandella and Morgan Smith."
After a scoreless first period, Hamden scored the only goals it needed in the second period, taking a 2-0 lead. The Green Dragons added three more tallies in the third period to seal the win.
"C.C. (Condon), Francesca, (Criscuolo) and Lindsey (Gerzabek) all had a bunch of scoring attempts," Blake said. "Shannon (Siclari), Gabi (Prisco), Francesca (Criscuolo), Veronica (Lynn) and Morgan (Smith) all blocked numerous shots, getting in front of the points."
Celina Condon (4), seen here against Notre Dame-Fairfield/Foran, and the Westies fell to Hamden, January 20, 2016. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
Hamden took a 1-0 lead in the middle period when Colleen Straub scored 3 minutes 34 seconds in. West Haven/SHA goaltender Kyleen Crowe kept her team in the game with numerous stops, finishing with 46 saves on the night.
"The girls played with heart tonight," Blake said. "Every game, they continue to grow as a team. We are proud of their hard work tonight."
The Green Dragons took a 2-0 lead with 2:06 left in the second and increased the margin to 3-0 when Taylor Klesyk scored with 7:24 gone by in the third.
Hamden needed just seven seconds to tale a 4-0 lead when Maggie Gould scored off the ensuing faceoff.
Westies blank NDFF/Foran
WH/SHA improves to 6-3-1 with second straight victory
By MIKE MADERA
Westie Blue
(January 16, 2016) - West Haven/Sacred Heart Academy girls hockey coach Erin Blake knows the toughest part of her team's schedule is approaching. Knowing her team needs to play well, Blake has to be ecstatic with the showing the Westies put forth Saturday afternoon.
With six different players in the scoring column and scoring three times in the second period, West Haven defeated Notre Dame-Fairfield/Foran 3-0 at the Edward L. Bennett Rink.
"Today was a huge win for us," Blake said after her team improved to 6-3-1 with its second straight win. "Notre Dame is a strong team and we knew coming into this game we had to play smart hockey. The girls took their time, kept their heads up, made great passes and shot the puck. We played our best game of the season and did it as a team. The girls are growing together every game and their hard work shows every shift. We are proud of our girls and their hard work this season. Today's game showed we are here to compete."
Kyleen Crowe made 40 saves in a 3-0 win over Notre Dame-Fairfield/Foran, January 16, 2016. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
The Westies got on the scoreboard and notched the only goal they needed just 3 minutes, 13 seconds into the second period when Veronica Lynn set up Lindsey Gerzabek for a 1-0 lead.
The lead increased to 2-0 with 5:05 to go in the middle period as Francesca Criscuolo set up Alycia Sandella. Just 42 seconds later, Celina Condon scored off an assist from Morgan Smith for a 3-0 advantage.
"We played only three defensemen today (Gabi Prisco, Carlie Tammaro, and Veronica Lynn)," Blake said. "They kept us in the game and worked hard from start to finish. We moved Morgan (Smith) up to play the wing on the second line with C.C. (Condon) and Francesca (Criscuolo) and her assist was what got this game going. Once C.C. scored, we fell into our groove. Morgan really stepped it up and played a great game."
Morgan Smith (19) and the Westies defeated Notre Dame-Fairfield/Foran, January 16, 2016. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
Westies top Guilford
Criscuolo scores twice in 5-1 win
By MIKE MADERA
Westie Blue
(January 13, 2016) - The West Haven/Sacred Heart Academy girls hockey team got back on the winning track with a 5-1 victory over Guilford in East Haven Wednesday evening. Francesca Criscuolo scored twice and added an assist, Alycia Sandella and Lindsey Gerzabek each had a goal and an assist, and Gabi Prisco added two assists in the win.
"This was an important win for us in our division," West Haven/SHA coach Erin Blake said. "The girls came to play tonight. We made some changes on our lines and we were still able to put the puck in the net. This game really showed how well they have come together as a team. Francesca Criscuolo played her heart out, picking up two goals and an assist."
After Criscuolo gave the Westies a 1-0 lead with 2:16 left in the opening period, West Haven/SHA put the game away with three goals in the second period.
Celina Condon (4), seen here against Amity/North Haven/Cheshire, and the Westies won against Guilford, January 13, 2016. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
Prisco set up Gerzabek 3:01 into the second for a 2-0 advantage and Condon scored 2:10 later off assists from Veronica Lynn and Criscuolo for a 3-0 lead.
Catherine Lawrence got Guilford on the board 53 seconds later, but Sandella's goal with 1:44 remaining in the middle period had the Westies on top 4-1. Gerzabek and Carlie Tammaro assisted on the late second period goal.
Lindsey Gerzabek (11), seen here against Amity/North Haven/Cheshire, and the Westies won against Guilford, January 13, 2016. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
West Haven/SHA put the game away 5:33 into the third period when Prisco set up Criscuolo for a 5-1 lead.
Kyleen Crowe made 25 saves in the win for the Westies.
Westies fall to Amity/North Haven/Cheshire
Gerzabek goal not enough in loss
By MIKE MADERA
Westie Blue
(January 9, 2016) - The West Haven/Sacred Heart Academy girls hockey team fell to Amity/North Haven/Cheshire Saturday afternoon by a score of 2-1. In what was expected to be a tight affair, the Westies only managed a deflected goal by Lindsey Gerzabek in the loss.
Gabi Prisco (20) against Amity/North Haven/Cheshire, January 9, 2016. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
"The girls played an amazing game," coach Erin Blake said after her team fell to 4-3-1. "They fought hard. It was a tough loss, but we were extremely proud of our girls today. Kyleen Crowe was unbelievable in the net, keeping us in the game with 37 saves."
The Westies never led in the game as ANC scored single tallies in each of the first two periods. West Haven finally got on the board in the third period when Veronica Lynn's shot was tipped in by Lindsey Gerzabek at the 11:08 mark.
West Haven/Sacred Heart Academy players celebrate Lindsey Gerzabek's (11) goal against Amity/North Haven/Cheshire, January 9, 2016. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
West Haven had one final opportunity to even the contest. With goaltender Kyleen Crowe pulled for an extra attacker, Gabi Prisco hit the post with 20 seconds remaining in the third period.
"Carlie Tammaro played an aggressive game on defense while Gabi Prisco and Veronica Lynn both had multiple attempts up the ice throughout the game," Blake said. "Our first line of Alycia Sandella, Shannon Siclari and Lindsey Gerzabek moved the puck well, and freshmen Celina Condon and Francesca Criscuolo continue to give it 100 percent every shift, playing smart and aggressive hockey."
Crowe made 37 saves in the loss for the Westies.
Rolling Along
WH/SHA defeats Hand to improve to 4-2-1
By MIKE MADERA
Westie Blue
(December 30, 2015) - West Haven / Sacred Heart Academy coach Erin Blake knew she would have a solid team in her first year behind the bench of the girls hockey team. Blake has to be ecstatic with how the season has started.
Led by two goals from freshman Francesca Criscuolo and another from junior Gabi Prisco, the Westies defeated Hand-Madison 3-1 at the Northford Ice Pavilion Wednesday afternoon.
The win was the second in a row for the Westies, and the team has three wins and a tie in its last four contests to improve to 4-2-1.
Francesca Criscuolo (14), seen here earlier in the season, scored twice in a 3-1 win over Hand, December 30, 2015. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
"The girls played great today," Blake said. "They showed the heart and determination we have been waiting to see. They passed the puck well and kept their heads up to make smart passes every shift. Our defense played another great game and has continued to move and shoot the puck well."
The Westies got on the scoreboard in the first period when Prisco set up Criscuolo at the 2:33 mark. West Haven/Sacred Heart Academy scored the eventual winning goal in the second period when Celina Condon assisted Prisco at the 13 minute mark. Criscuolo picked up her second of the afternoon, scoring off an assist from Lindsey Gerzabek at the 14:30 mark to ice the win.
Freshman Kyleen Crowe made 20 saves in goal for the Westies.
"Kyleen has remained our backbone in the net," Blake said. "She played well again. C.C. (Condon), Gabi (Prisco), Veronica (Lynn) and Francesca (Criscuolo) all had great games. Lindsey (Gerzabek), Shannon (Siclari) and Alycia (Sandella) all played great together as well."
Westies win Thriller
Prisco's overtime goal lifts WH over Trumbull-St.Joseph
By MIKE MADERA
Westie Blue
(December 28, 2015) - Gabi Prisco is no stranger to success. Thriving in each sport she plays, Prisco lives for the big moments.
The junior again showed why she is one of the top female athletes in the area as she came up with yet another big play, scoring 39 seconds into overtime to lift the West Haven/Sacred Heart Academy girls hockey team to a 2-1 victory over Trumbull-St. Joseph Monday afternoon.
Gabi Prisco (20) scored the game-winner as West Haven/Sacred Heart Academy defeated Trumbull-St. Joseph 2-1, December 28, 2015. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
"Veronica (Lynn) and Gabi (Prisco) played an awesome game, both offensively and defensively, scoring our goals" West Haven/SHA coach Erin Blake said after her team improved to 3-2-1. . "Gabi got her first goal of the season when it mattered most, carrying the team to another victory."
The Westies took a 1-0 lead 4:11 into the first period when Veronica Lynn scored an unassisted goal. That would be West Haven's lone tally until the overtime period when Prisco scored off assists from Lynn and Criscuolo for the winner.
Veronica Lynn (66) had a goal and an assist in a 2-1 win over Trumbull-St. Joseph, December 28, 2015. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
"C.C. Condon had another amazing, aggressive game as well as Francesca Criscuolo. We shot the puck well tonight. Trumbull's goalie had a great game, but we kept the pressure until we were able to capitalize."
Freshman Kyleen Crowe made 14 saves in the win for the Westies.
Westies play to tie with NDFF
Late goal by Lancers ties WH
By MIKE MADERA
Westie Blue
(December 23, 2015) - The West Haven/Sacred Heart Academy girls hockey team appeared headed to its third win of the season. Unfortunately a goal by Notre Dame-Fairfield with 56 seconds remaining in the third period prevented that as the two teams played to a 2-2 tie Wednesday evening at the Milford Ice Pavilion.
West Haven/Sacred Heart Academy coach Erin Blake talks to her team in a 2-2 tie against Notre Dame-Fairfield, December 23, 2015. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
"Overall, it was our best game as a team today," West Haven/Sacred Heart Academy coach Erin Blake said after her team moved to 2-2-1. "It is tough to take because we outshot and out played them.
"We played hockey tonight. We played tough and worked hard from start to finish. It was an aggressive game, and we shot the puck tonight. We just couldn't find the holes."
Both goals by the Westies were on the power play. Lindsey Gerzabek got West Haven on the board with a goal off an assist from Celina Condon with 4:44 left in the middle period.
Lindsey Gerzabek (11) scores against Notre Dame-Fairfield, December 23, 2015. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
Condon then set up another goal, this one from Francesca Criscuolo with 4:36 remaining in the game to give the Westies the lead. Gabi Prisco, who Blake stated played her best game of the season, also assisted on the goal which looked to have given the Westies the win.
Gabi Prisco (20) shoots wide against Notre Dame-Fairfield, December 23, 2015. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
"It was our first nail-biter of the season down to the last second," Blake said. "The girls learned you need to fight until the last second in every game and give 110 percent all game. We are proud of our girls today and look forward to our next game."
Freshman goaltender Kyleen Crowe continued to play well for the Westies, finishing with 26 saves in the contest.
Westies blank Crusaders
Sandella scores twice to lead WH/SHA to 7-0 victory
By MIKE MADERA
Westie Blue
(December 19, 2015) - It has been feast or famine for the West Haven/Sacred Heart Academy girls hockey team thus far this season. Shut out in both their losses, the Westies had to like their chances after scoring three times in the first period Saturday afternoon.
Paced by two goals and two assists from Alycia Sandella, with six different players in the scoring column, and with freshman Kyleen Crowe making 18 saves, the Westies defeated Lauralton Hall 7-0 at the Edward L. Bennett Rink to improve to 2-2 on the season.
"The girls are working hard and it is paying off," West Haven/SHA coach Erin Blake said. "We are improving every day. Six different girls picking up points in today's game shows the great teamwork the girls have developed. C.C. (Celina) Condon and Francesca Criscuolo have meshed well together and are holding down our second line as freshmen. Both of them had an outstanding game."
Alycia Sandella (17) scores one of her two goals in a 7-0 win over Lauralton Hall, December 19, 2015. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
Sandella led the Westies with two goals and two assists, Lindsey Gerzabek and Francesca Criscuolo each had a goal and two assists, and Shannon Siclari and Celina Condon each had a goal and an assist. Carlie Tammaro also scored in the win.
West Haven took control of the game, scoring three times in the first period. Gerzabek gave the Westies a 1-0 lead off assists from Siclari and Sandella 5 minutes, 34 seconds into the contest. Gerzabek and Sandella set up Siclari at the 10:59 mark for a 2-0 lead and Criscuolo set up Condon eight seconds later for a 3-0 advantage.
The Westies increased the lead to 5-0 with two goals in the second period. Tammaro scored off an assist from Condon 1:15 into the middle period and Sandella scored off an assist from Gerzabek 4:37 later.
"We look forward to growing together as a team," assistant coach Jocey Morrell said. "The Westies put the game away, scoring twice in 33 seconds in the third period. Criscuolo had the first tally at the 7:40 mark and Sandella scored off an assist from Criscuolo for a 7-0 advantage.
Francesca Criscuolo (14) and Alycia Sandella (17) celebrate a goal by Criscuolo in a 7-0 win over Lauralton Hall, December 19, 2015. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
"Grace Plunkett and Sydney Marcarelli both played well on the wings today," Blake said. "Both girls have come a long way as first year players. We know they will only continue to develop throughout the season."
Kyleen Crowe (30) made 18 saves in a 7-0 win over Lauralton Hall, December 19, 2015. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
With her efforts between the pipes, Crowe picked up her first shutout of the season.
Conard-Hall zips Westies
WH/SHA falls 7-0 to drop to 1-2
By MIKE MADERA
Westie Blue
(December 14, 2015) - West Haven/Sacred Heart Academy girls hockey coach Erin Blake knew her team might have some growing pains this season. With plenty of youth and a squad getting used to playing together, Blake was aware there could be games like Monday evening.
Pouring 64 shots on goal, Conard-Hall defeated the Westies 7-0 as the Westies fell to 1-2 on the season.
"We will continue to work hard as a team," Blake said. "The girls are becoming more comfortable with each other on the ice and our passes are improving."
Freshman goalie Kyleen Crowe was kept busy on the night as she made an astounding 57 saves in the loss.
Celina Condon, seen here against Wilton-Norwalk, and the Westies fell to Conard-Hall 7-0 Monday, December 14, 2015. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
Lindsey Gerzabek, who has a goal and two assists on the year, played well throughout, as did Veronica Lynn and Gabi Prisco.
"Lindsey Gerzabek played a great game from start to finish, never giving up with numerous attempts and shots on net," Blake said. "Veronica (Lynn) and Gabi (Prisco) had a few chances each and played another great game on defense. Shannon Siclari played tough all game too."
The Westies return to action Saturday afternoon when they host Lauralton Hall at noon.
Westies defeat Wilton/Norwalk
Gerzabek, Sandella lead WH/SHA to 4-1 victory
By MIKE MADERA
Westie Blue
(December 12, 2015) - The West Haven / Sacred Heart Academy girls hockey team picked up its initial victory as a co-op team with a 4-1 decision over Wilton / Norwalk Saturday afternoon at the Edward L. Bennett Rink. The win was the first for the new program as well as coach Erin Blake.
The West Haven/SHA girls hockey team celebrates it first win as a co-op with a 4-1 victory over Wilton / Norwalk, December 12, 2015. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
"The girls played great," Blake said after the Westies improved to 1-1. "We worked hard yesterday coming off our Hamden loss, and we were ready for the game today."
Lindsey Gerzabek and Alycia Sandella led the way as Gerzabek had a goal and two assists and Sandella finished with one goal and one assist.
Lindsey Gerzabek (11) celebrates her goal in a 4-1 victory over Wilton / Norwalk, December 12, 2015. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
While the captains, along with fellow captain Gabi Prisco who added an assist, led the way, it was a complete team effort as eight different players found the scoring column and a highly touted freshmen class produced.
Freshman goaltender Kyleen Crowe made 25 saves in her first varsity victory, Veronica Lynn and Francesca Criscuolo scored and Celina Condon added an assist.
"Freshman Veronica Lynn started us off with our first West Haven / Sacred Heart Academy goal and all the nerves disappeared," Blake said. "We were ready to play hockey. Kyleen Crowe played another amazing game in net with 25 saves. I am proud of the girls and their first win."
With Celina Condon (4) moving in to help, Kyleen Crowe (30) made one of her 25 saves in a 4-1 victory over Wilton / Norwalk, December 12, 2015. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
West Haven got on the scoreboard first as Lynn scored off assists from Gerzabek and Sandella 7 minutes, 53 seconds into the game. After Wilton / Norwalk evened the game after one period of play, the Westies took control of the contest in the second period with three goals.
Following a breakaway, Prisco set up Gerzabek for a 2-1 lead 7:08 into the middle period and Criscuolo gave the Westies a 3-1 lead 2:14 later off assists from Condon and Sarah Grillo.
Celina Condon (4) celebrates a goal by Francesca Criscuolo (14) in a 4-1 victory over Wilton / Norwalk, December 12, 2015. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
Sandella capped the second period scoring just 42 seconds later, scoring off assists from Shannon Siclari and Gerzabek.
The rest was up to the Westies' defense and Crowe and both were impressive in the final two periods. Lynn, Morgan Smith, Prisco and Carlie Tammaro all played solid games defensively for the Westies.
"Our defense played well all game," Blake said. "C.C. Condon had a strong game on the wing as she was aggressive in the corners."
WH/SHA falls to Hamden in season opener
Co-op losses first game to rival
By MIKE MADERA
Westie Blue
(December 9, 2015) - The inaugural game for the West Haven/Sacred Heart Academy girls hockey team did not go off as planned. Looking for a quick start to the season, the Westies were defeated on the road against rival Hamden, 8-0, Wednesday evening.
"We can only improve from this loss," WH/SHA coach Erin Blake said. "We know what we need to focus on and we will continue to work hard in practice."
Despite some quality scoring attempts, the Westies were unable to dent the back of the net. Freshman Veronica Lynn and junior Gabi Prisco each had scoring attempts and played well defensively. Sophomore Shannon Siclari had a penalty shot, but could not convert in the third period.
"CC (Celina Condon) and Francesca (Criscuolo), my other freshmen, played well and so did Alycia (Sandella) and Lindsey (Gerzabek), our captains," Blake said.
Freshman goaltender Kyleen Crowe played well in goal, despite Hamden scoring eight times. The Green Dragons peppered Crowe with over 50 shots in the contest, but Crowe was stellar turning back several quality scoring opportunities by Hamden.
"Kyleen Crowe played an unbelievable game in net regardless of the score," Blake said. "She played her heart out the whole game."
Two for One
WH and SHA combine to form solid squad
By MIKE MADERA
Westie Blue
(December 6, 2015) - Much has changed since the West Haven girls hockey team last took the ice. Not only do the Westies have a new head coach, they have a new pool to draw from.
Forming a co-op with Sacred Heart Academy and led behind the bench by former Westie star Erin Blake, the West Haven/Sacred Heat Academy hockey team is looking to be a team to be reckoned with in the 2015-2016 season.
Blake is a 2004 graduate from West Haven, starring in soccer, basketball, hockey and softball. She is currently a sixth grade teacher at Carrigan.
With a new dynamic, including girls from different schools, and a new coach, the transition has gone well. Blake is looking for a tight-knit group and feels she has the right kids in place.
"The girls have come together as one team," Blake said. "They act as a family. They show each other the same sportsmanship and respect. They pride themselves as a family. I thought it might be hard to bring the two together, but it has been a walk in the park. They laugh and joke together and they have made it easy on me. I like their dedication and drive."
Leading the way as captains for the new co-op will be Sacred Heart senior Lindsey Gerzabek, West Haven senior wing Alycia Sandella and West Haven junior Gabi Prisco, who led the Westies with 19 goals a season ago, on defense.
West Haven junior Gabi Prisco (20) will play a key role in the success of the West Haven/Sacred Heart Academy girls hockey team in 2015-2016. File photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
Blake has plenty of youth to work with this season as freshmen Kyleen Crowe and Francesca Criscuolo from Sacred Heart, and Veronica Lynn and Celina Condon from West Haven will make an immediate impact.
West Haven/SHA goaltender Kyleen Crowe looks to lead the 2015-2016 Westies. Photo courtesy of Denise Crowe.
Crowe is a highly touted goaltender, Lynn is stellar on defense and Criscuolo (center) and Condon (wing) will play key roles on the offensive side.
West Haven seniors Carlie Tammaro and Morgan Smith will be key players on defense, and Sarah Grillo will contribute on offense at right wing. Sacred Heart junior Sydney Marcarelli will play on the wing and West Haven sophomore Shannon Siclari will play on the left wing.
"We have come in and have already united as one," Blake said. "The girls are looking to do some damage. They are pumped for the season. West Haven is looking to move forward and Sacred Heart has some strong players. Overall, we are just trying to make a name for ourselves. We know we need to work together and be together. We need team work."
Freshman Veronica Lynn is expected to make an immediate impact on the 2015-2016 West Haven/SHA girls hockey team. Photo courtesy of Denise Crowe.
With Crowe in goal and a solid defense of Prisco, Lynn, Tammaro and Smith, the Westies will look to add plenty of offensive firepower as well.
Condon looks to center a line with Gerzabek and Sandella, Criscuolo should center a line with Siclari and Grillo, and Marcarelli anchors a line with West Haven junior Jillian Perno on the left side and Sacred Heart junior Olivia Ross on the right side.
Former Westie Jocey Morrell will assist Blake on the bench. Morrell was a standout player in soccer, hockey and softball during her days at West Haven.
West Haven opens its season, Wednesday, December 9 on the road against Hamden at 7 p.m.
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All-State players - Gabi Prisco '15; Gabi Prisco '16
Celina Condon scores against Hand, February 10, 2016. Double click to view full screen. Video courtesy of Mike Madera.
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Gabi Prisco (20) scores against Amity/North Haven/Cheshire, February 26, 2016. Video courtesy of Mike Madera.
Gabi Prisco (20) makes a diving stop to prevent a goal against Amity/North Haven/Cheshire, February 26, 2016. Video courtesy of Mike Madera.
Shannon Siclari (8) scores against Hand in the SCC Division II semifinals, February 22, 2016. Video courtesy of Mike Madera.
Congratulations to West Haven/SHA junior Gabi Prisco on being named to the 2015-2016 Girls Hockey All-State team.
Prisco is the only female girls hockey player in West Haven history to be named All-State and has done so for two straight seasons.
Southern Connecticut Conference Division II Coach of the Year, from West Haven/Sacred Heart Academy, Erin Blake (l.), and SCC Division II Player of the Year from West Haven/Sacred Heart Academy, Gabi Prisco (second from l.). Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
Southern Connecticut Conference All-SCC Division II team with SCC Division II Player of the Year from West Haven/Sacred Heart Academy, Gabi Prisco (c.). Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
Heartbreaking
Season ends with 2-1 loss to Amity/North Haven/Cheshire in SCC Division II finals
By MIKE MADERA
Westie Blue
(February 26, 2016) - Amity/North Haven/Cheshire coach Scott Whyte knows he has an outstanding goaltender in Juliana Daddio. Entering the game with a 2.05 goals against average, Daddio gave Whyte and his team plenty of confidence as the Blades entered the Southern Connecticut Conference Division II finals against West Haven/Sacred Heart Academy.
Fortunately for Whyte and the Blades, Daddio was even better than her season average. Allowing only a first period goal to the SCC Division II Player of the Year, Gabi Prisco, Daddio turned aside 29 shots as the Blades took home the program's first postseason title with a 2-1 victory over the Westies in front of a packed crowd at the Edward L. Bennett Rink Friday evening.
"Our defense is strong and our goalie (Daddio) is having a tremendous season," Whyte said after his team improved to 16-5-1 overall. "She has a 2.05 goals against average and she has been great. She was great tonight. Their goalie (Kyleen Crowe) was great as well. This is the best game we ever played.
"This is the first title of any sort for this team since its inception in 2007. We went undefeated (10-0) in the division this year. We have four strong lines and six very strong defensive players."
Alycia Sandella (17), Lindsey Gerzabek (c.) and Gabi Prisco (20) pose with the SCC Division II runner-up plaque after falling 2-1 against Amity/North Haven/Cheshire, February 26, 2016. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
While Daddio was clutch in goal, it was Bailey MacNamara who came up big at the end for the Blades. With Amity/North Haven/Cheshire on a two-man advantage, MacNamara poked in a rebound in front with 4 minutes, 57 seconds remaining in the third period to put the Blades up a goal.
"I feel bad that West Haven was down two players in such a great game," Whyte said. "But, we wanted it. We worked hard and we were able to get the goal to put us ahead. It was just a great game."
With the lead, the final minutes came down to Daddio and the sophomore goaltender did not disappoint. Daddio sealed the game when the Westies' final quality shot off the stick of Prisco from the slot was turned aside with 1:25 left in the third period.
"My defense did a great job," Daddio said. "They blocked shots and I was able to see everything."
Morgan Smith (19) celebrates a goal by Gabi Prisco (20) against Amity/North Haven/Cheshire, February 26, 2016. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
West Haven/Sacred Heart Academy, playing in its first ever postseason championship game, got on the board first when Prisco broke free from the Amity/North Haven/Cheshire defense and slipped a shot between the pads of Daddio with 9:14 left in the opening period.
The Westies were hardly done celebrating when Alaina Safian scored off a scramble in front 24 seconds later to even the game at one for the Blades.
"Words can't express how proud I am of these girls," West Haven/SHA coach Erin Blake said after her team finished the season at 10-10-2. "It was a great game. I told the girls we had nothing to lose and everything to gain. We played great. We had three firsts this year. We were the first team to get in the postseason, the first team to win a semifinal game, and the first team to play in a championship game. I am so proud of them."
The two goalies combined for 65 saves, with each looking to steal the championship. Daddio denied Francesca Criscuolo, who was all alone in front, with 6 minutes to go in the first and stopped Celina Condon on a 2-on-1 break with 7:41 to go in the second. Daddio then made a pair of outstanding saves within two minutes late in the second, stopping a wraparound attempt by Condon with a pad save, then denying Condon on a breakaway.
"I am so proud of how far this team has come from the beginning of the year," Prisco said. "We never played together before and we made it to the championship. We came out very strong and played to our full potential. We fought to the end."
Francesca Criscuolo (14) and Celina Condon (4) look to score against Amity/North Haven/Cheshire, February 26, 2016. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
Crowe, who finished with 36 saves, was equally impressive, stopping a point blank shot by Meaghan Hogan in the final seconds of the second period and turning aside Erin Owens' shot from the doorstep just over three minutes into the third period.
On to the Finals
WH/SHA tops Hand to advance to SCC DII finals
By MIKE MADERA
Westie Blue
(February 22, 2016) - Just 12 days ago, the West Haven/Sacred Heart Academy girls hockey team watched as Hand-Madison scored a late goal to steal a pivotal regular season contest. The Westies were not about to let that happen again.
Playing stellar defensively and using goals by Gabi Prisco and Shannon Siclari, the Westies defeated Hand, 2-0, in the Southern Connecticut Conference Division II semifinals at the Edward L. Bennett Rink Monday afternoon.
West Haven/SHA head coach Erin Blake (r.) and Gabi Prisco (l.) celebrate the team's SCC Division II semifinal win over Hand, February 22, 2016, along with Veronica Lynn (66) and assistant coach Jocey Morrell (r.). Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
With the win, the first in postseason history for the team, the Westies advance to the SCC Division II finals Friday evening at 6;15 p.m. at the Bennett Rink against the winner of fourth-seeded Notre Dame-Fairfield and top-seeded Amity/North Haven/Cheshire.
"I can't say enough to express how proud we are of the girls tonight," West Haven/Sacred Heart Academy coach Erin Blake said after her team improved to 10-9-2. "We needed a leader to get us started and Gabi (Prisco) came through again. We stepped up to the plate and played as a team. We deserved the game because we never gave up on each other. We earned this win as a team. They made history. I can't say it enough how proud of our girls we are."
Looking for a leader to set the tone of the game, Blake needed to look no further than the SCC Division II Player of the Year, Gabi Prisco. The junior wasted no time delivering as she was solid on defense.
Prisco then scored what turned out to be the game-winning goal with 5:18 left in the opening period as she cruised in front and used a low shot past Hand goalie Kylie Gargiulo for a 1-0 lead.
Gabi Prisco (20) prepares to celebrate her goal during a West Haven/SHA SCC Division II semifinal win over Hand, February 22, 2016. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
"This is what we have been waiting for," Blake said. "We played hard together from the start to finish. We gave 110 percent the entire game."
The Westies were not done in the first period. Continuing the pressure into the final minute of the opening period, Siclari took a pass from Carlie Tammaro and came down the left wing. Siclari then buried a shot inside the left post for a 2-0 West Haven/SHA lead with 53 seconds remaining in the opening period.
Shannon Siclari (8) puts pressure on during a West Haven/SHA SCC Division II semifinal win over Hand, February 22, 2016. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
With the two-goal advantage, West Haven played a smart game as the Westies continued to attack, while allowing just 12 Hand shots in the contest.
West Haven/SHA goaltender Kyleen Crowe stopped all 12 shots, with her biggest save coming in the final minutes of the game as she denied Hand's Sara Conroy on a breakaway with a blocker save.
Gargiulo came up big the rest of the way after the opening period for Hand, particularly in the second period where she denied Celina Condon in front, Siclari off a perfect pass from Prisco, and a blast from Veronica Lynn.
West Haven/SHA coaches Jocey Morrell (l.) and Erin Blake (r.) celebrate the team's 2-0 SCC Division II semifinal win over Hand, February 22, 2016. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
West Haven had only six shots on goal in the third period, while Hand had seven after the Tigers combined for just five shots in the first two periods.
West Haven/SHA killed off a pair of penalties in the final 7:12, including one with 1:50 remaining, to seal its place in the title game.
Prisco and Blake Honored
Junior named SCC DII MVP, while Blake named Coach of the Year
By MIKE MADERA
Westie Blue
(February 20, 2016) - The West Haven girls hockey team is reaping the awards of a season which sees the team hosting a Southern Connecticut Conference semifinal game.
With a 9-9-2 record and putting their name on the girls hockey map, the Westies picked up some league awards this week.
Junior Gabi Prisco was named the SCC Division II Player of the Year as well as a Second Team All-State selection. Prisco became the first player in West Haven school history to be named to the girls hockey All-State team last year.
Gabi Prisco was named the SCC Division II Player of the Year. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
"It is an honor to be named Player of the Year, but I couldn't have gotten here if it wasn't for my teammates," Prisco said. "I'm so proud of my team and how far we have come this season. I am expecting even bigger things in the future."
This season, a steadying presence on the defensive side, Prisco is third on the team in points with 16 as she has scored nine goals and added seven assists.
"I would also like to thank coach (Erin) Blake and coach (Jocey) Morrell for working so hard to bring the girls from both schools together to create such a unified team," Prisco said.
The junior is also a star athlete on the girls soccer and lacrosse teams at West Haven High.
In her first season at the helm, Blake has been named the SCC Division II Coach of the Year.
Erin Blake (l.) was named the SCC Division II Coach of the Year. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
"This is truly an honor," Blake said. "The Division II coaches are amazing. They have helped me learn the ropes this season and I appreciate all of their help throughout the season. This recognition is a reflection of my girls. They deserve this. I couldn't be prouder of this team, the first West Haven/Sacred Heart Academy team which made a name for itself."
Along with assistant coach Jocey Morrell, Blake has taken the squad to the SCC semifinal contest Monday evening at 5 p.m. against third-seeded Hand-Madison.
"It is an honor coaching such a great group of girls," Blake said. "They never gave up, even when we hit some rough patches and that is all I could ask for. It wouldn't be possible without (assistant coach ) Jocey (Morrell). We make all decisions together, just how we teach the girls to work together."
With the Westies merging with Sacred Heart Academy, Blake has been able to merge the two schools into a cohesive unit. A team which opponents may have looked by in the past is now one which scores and gets solid defensive play and goaltending.
As a result, the Westies finished the regular season with nine wins.
Westies top Guilford on Senior Night
Criscuolo scores 3 goals in 6-2 win
By MIKE MADERA
Westie Blue
(February 20, 2016) - On Senior Night at Bennett Rink Saturday afternoon, freshman Francesca Criscuolo made sure the seniors' final regular season game at home was a winner. Criscuolo scored three times as the Westies defeated Guilford 6-2.
With the win, West Haven/Sacred Heart Academy improved to 9-9-2. The Westies are the second seed in the Southern Connecticut Conference Division II tournament and will host third-seeded Hand Monday at 5 p.m.
"I couldn't be prouder of how we finished out our regular season," West Haven coach Erin Blake said. "Every single girl, especially our seniors, gave it their all and that's all I could ask for. We played with heart and I am excited to see what our girls will do in the SCC tournament. They are ready and determined. They have had an amazing season and I know none of us are ready for it to end."
Lindsey Gerzabek (11) and the Westies defeated Guilford, February 20, 2016. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
On a day to honor the seniors and playing without junior Gabi Prisco, three freshmen made sure the Westies went home winners as each scored in the opening period for a 3-0 West Haven/SHA lead.
Veronica Lynn scored 4:25 into the game, Celina Condon increased the lead to 2-0 just 1:55 later and Criscuolo extended the margin to three goals at the 10:43 mark.
Francesca Criscuolo (14) celebrates a goal against Guilford, February 20, 2016. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
"Francesca (Criscuolo) was unstoppable," Blake said. "C.C. (Condon) stepped it up,playing defense without Gabi (Prisco), and she had an amazing goal to the upper left corner from the blue line. She played amazing. Veronica (Lynn) played very well. Her shot was the hardest I have seen all season. She knew she had to step it up without Gabi and came to play. Kyleen Crowe played great in goal."
Lynn gave the Westies a 4-0 lead 3:09 into the second period, before Guilford cut the margin to three goals on the first of Catherine Lawrence's two goals 3:10 later. Criscuolo put the game away with the final two goals of the period for a 6-1 lead.
Carlie Tammaro and Jillian Perno assisted on Criscuolo's goal for a 5-1 lead, before Lindsey Gerzabek picked up an assist on Criscuolo's tally to give West Haven/SHA a 6-1 lead with one minute left in the middle period.
Shannon Siclari (8), Carlie Tammaro (7) and the Westies defeated Guilford, February 20, 2016. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
Kyleen Crowe made 19 saves in the win for the Westies.
Westies fall to Simsbury
Crowe injured in 9-2 loss
By MIKE MADERA
Westie Blue
(February 15, 2016) - Heading to Simsbury for a Monday afternoon contest, the West Haven/Sacred Heart Academy girls hockey team knew it was in for a challenge to keep its two-game winning streak alive. When freshman goaltender Kyleen Crowe was injured in the third period, the task became a major one.
Trailing by just two goals after two periods of play, the Westies battled before falling 8-2 in Simsbury.
Crowe suffered a leg injury early in the third period and was replaced by Zoe DeFalco, who did an admirable job in her first time in goal.
"The girls played great," West Haven/SHA coach Erin Blake said after her team fell to 8-9-2. "The score does not reflect how well we played. We were in the game the whole time. Zoe (DeFalco) stepped up in unbelievable fashion, playing goal for the first time for us."
Trailing 2-0 after one period on a pair of Katie Grigely goals for Simsbury, Gabi Prisco cut the deficit in half with an unassisted goal with 6:47 left in the second period.
Gabi Prisco, seen here earlier in the season, scored for the Westies in a loss to Simsbury, February 15, 2016. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
Simsbury scored with seven seconds left in the middle period for a 3-1 lead, before Veronica Lynn, off an assist from Jillian Perno, got West Haven within 3-2 early in the third period.
Simsbury added a pair of goals in 11 seconds with 9:10 remaining for a 5-2 lead. Crowe was injured, allowing DeFalco to play the remainder of the contest n goal.
Crowe made 38 saves in the loss for West Haven.
Two in a Row
Westies top Lauralton Hall
By MIKE MADERA
Westie Blue
(February 13, 2016) - Coach Erin Blake and the West Haven/Sacred Heart Academy girls hockey team was looking to get back on track after a stretch of games without a win. The Westies have done so.
Led by a pair of goals from Francesca Criscuolo, and a goal and an assist from Gabi Prisco, the Westies won their second straight contest with a 5-0 victory over Lauralton Hall Saturday evening.
Criscuolo and Prisco gave the Westies all the scoring they would need as the two combined to give West Haven/SHA a 3-0 lead after one period of play.
Criscuolo gave the Westies a 1-0 lead with an unassisted goal with 7:52 remaining, before Criscuolo scored again 2:44 later off an assist from Alycia Sandella. When Prisco scored off an assist from Morgan Smith with 1:32 left in the period, the Westies were on top 3-0.
Prisco was involved in the only goal of the second period as she set up Lindsey Gerzabek for a 4-0 lead with 2:24 remaining in the middle period. Olivia Ross scored 1:50 into the third for a 5-0 lead.
Kyleen Crowe made six saves in the shutout win.
Westies snap Skid
Win over Trumbull-St.Joseph stops streak at six
By MIKE MADERA
Westie Blue
(February 12, 2016) - Not posting a win in its last six games, the West Haven/Sacred Heart Academy girls hockey team needed to get back on the winning track. Lindsey Gerzabek and Gabi Prisco made sure that happened.
Getting a pair of goals and an assist from both Prisco and Gerzabek, the Westies cruised to a 7-2 victory on the road.
"Our captains carried us to a victory tonight," West Haven/SHA coach Erin Blake said after her team improved to 7-8-2. "Each scored goals and added points. We needed this game. We needed this win to turn our season back around. It was great to add a winto our record, and confidence grew throughout the game. We were finally the team we know we can be."
Gerzabek wasted no time getting the Westies going as she scored off an assist from Alycia Sandella just 34 seconds into the game. Shannon Siclari set up Gerzabek's second of the game with 5:22 left in the first for a 2-0 lead.
After Trumbull scored twice to tie the game after one period of play, the Westies answered by scoring five unanswered goals.
Prisco scored her first of the game with 2:30 left in the middle period for a 3-2 lead and just 19 seconds later, Sandella scored off assists from Gerzabeck and Siclari for a 4-2 advantage after two periods.
"The girls kept their composure through a very physical game," Blake said. "Every girl on the team was part of this win tonight. We are putting the past behind us and looking forward to finishing off our season strong."
Prisco gave West Haven/SHA a 5-2 lead off an assist from Carlie Tammaro 3:09 into the third and Veronica Lynn extended the lead to 6-2 just 2:40 later. Prisco helped finish the scoring when she set up Emily Fowler with 5:29 remaining.
"We played with confidence," Blake said. "We passed the puck and played our positions."
Kyleen Crowe made 16 saves in the win for the Westies.
Westies fall to Hand
Late goal by Tigers costly in 2-1 loss
By MIKE MADERA
Westie Blue
(February 10, 2016) - With seeding for the Southern Connecticut Conference Division II tournament getting tighter, it comes as no surprise Wednesday afternoon's contest between West Haven/Sacred Heart Academy and Hand-Madison had a playoff feel. Hand's Sara Conroy and Bridget Dwyer made sure there was not much more separation between the two teams.
Behind Conroy's goal in the final five minutes of regulation and two points from Dwyer, Hand rallied to defeat the Westies 2-1 at the Edward L. Bennett Rink.
With the win, Hand improved to 5-11-1 overall and 4-9-1 in SCC Division II action, while the Westies dropped to 6-8-2 overall and 4-8-2 in SCC Division II, keeping the battle for second place between the two teams very much alive.
West Haven/SHA against Hand, February 10, 2016. Photo courtesy of Mike Madera.
"This was a good team win for us," Hand coach Tad McGwire said. "We showed a lot of heart today. We have come together as a team all year. We have found if we keep it simple, we do well. That is what we did."
With the game even at one in the final five minutes, Dwyer fed Conroy on the left wing. Conroy skated in on goal and snuck a shot past West Haven/SHA goaltender Kyleen Crowe inside the left post for a 2-1 Hand lead with 4:09 left in the third period.
Conroy's goal held up as Hand's sophomore goaltender Kylie Gargiulo made a pair of solid saves in the final minutes to preserve the lead. Gargiulo made one final save with 1:09 remaining as she denied Celina Condon from the right side in close with a pad save.
"She improves every time she goes out there," McGwire said of Gargiulo. "She just started playing goal last year. She works hard."
For West Haven/SHA coach Erin Blake, the game was a disappointing one as the Westies had defeated Hand 4-1 earlier in the season. Playing without leading goal scorer Francesca Criscuolo who missed the game due to illness, the Westies struggled to get off quality shots the entire game.
West Haven/SHA against Hand, February 10, 2016. Photo courtesy of Mike Madera.
Gargiulo finished with 19 saves for the Tigers, with most of the attempts coming from a distance or from the sides, rather than in close.
"We are working hard, but we just can't get a goal," Blake said after her team fell to 0-5-1 in its last six games following the loss. "They forced us to the outside. It is very disappointing. We worked so hard to get here. I think they just came out and wanted it more."
The Tigers controlled play in the first period and held a 12-4 advantage in shots. Only the play of Crowe kept Hand from taking more than a 1-0 lead after the period.
Crowe came up big throughout, denying Conroy and Dwyer from in front on separate occasions, and stopping a shot from the point by Julia Ciotti with a stick save with 4:02 left n the opening period.
"I think the team has played really well together since the beginning of the season," Dwyer said "I think it came down to who wanted it more when it was tied. We knew this game could go either way."
The work of Crowe kept Hand on top by just a goal after Dwyer scored from in front with 6:38 left in the opening period.
West Haven needed just 53 seconds of the second period to even the game as Condon raced down the right wing and forced a shot between Gargiulo and the post to even the game at one.
The Westies had their share of opportunities in the middle period, but Gargiulo came up big and the Westies' Gabi Prisco drilled a shot off the post six minutes in. Freshman Veronica Lynn was denied twice in 30 seconds by Gargiulo and Lindsey Gerzabek's backhander from the left faceoff circle was turned aside with 5:30 left in the period.
Crowe finished with 22 saves in the loss for West Haven / SHA.
Westies and Mercy/NW Catholic Tie
3 goals by Gabi Prisco lead way in 3-3 tie
By MIKE MADERA
Westie Blue
(February 2, 2016) - The West Haven/Sacred Heart Academy girls hockey team played to a 3-3 tie with the Mercy/NW Catholic hockey team Tuesday evening. Unfortunately for the Westies, it was an ending they would like to forget.
Carlie Tammaro (7) and the Westies played to a tie against Mercy/NW Catholic, February 2, 2016. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
Holding a 3-1 lead, West Haven allowed two goals in the final 2 minutes, 56 seconds of regulation, propelling Mercy to the tie.
"We had to make some changes tonight on our lines without Lindsey (Gerzabek), but all of the girls showed up to play" West Haven/SHA coach Erin Blake said after her team moved to 6-7-2. "We were off to a slow start, but starting the second period, we told the girls we were looking for a leader, someone to take control of the game and get us started. Gabi (Prisco) did just that. She played an amazing game, not only offensively, but defensively as well.
"After these past few tough losses, the girls tonight regained that confidence they need as a team to finish off our season strong. We are proud of their hard work, and tonight they showed that we will not give up."
Annie Alissi got Mercy within 3-2, before Katherine Sadak scored in the final 35 seconds to force the tie.
Kyleen Crowe makes one of her 40 saves as Francesca Criscuolo (14) and Veronica Lynn (66) move in against Mercy/NW Catholic, February 2, 2016. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
Mercy used Kayleigh Manion's first period goal to take a 1-0 lead, before West Haven junior Gabi Prisco took over.
Prisco evened the game at one 13 seconds into the second period and scored her second straight unassisted goal with 6:51 left in the middle period for a 2-1 West Haven lead. Prisco recorded the hat trick, scoring off an assist from Veronica Lynn 1:22 later for a 3-1 advantage.
Gabi Prisco (20) scores one of her three goals against Mercy / NW Catholic, February 2, 2016. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
With the absence of Gerzabek, Blake moved the lines around. Celina Condon, Francesca Criscuolo and Morgan Smith played on the first line, while Shannon Siclari and Alycia Sandella anchored a second line which also saw Sarah Grillo, Jillian Perno, Olivia Ross, Grace Plunkett and Sydney Marcarelli rotating in.
"Our defense (Prisco, Lynn and Carlie Tammaro) was aggressive again," Blake said. "I thought the first line moved the puck well and had numerous attempts, and each got in front of the puck to block shots. (Sarah) Grillo, (Jillian) Perno, (Sydney) Marcarelli, Plunkett and (Olivia) Ross all stepped up tonight rotating on the second line with Sandella and Siclari. Shannon (Siclari) centered the line without Lindsey (Gerzabek) and really took control of her line. Sandella played aggressively and shot the puck well."
Kyleen Crowe made 40 saves in the tie for West Haven/Sacred Heart Academy.
Branford drops Westies
Hornets post 5-1 victory over WH/SHA
By MIKE MADERA
Westie Blue
(January 30, 2016) - After such a solid start to the season, the last thing West Haven/Sacred Heart Academy coach Erin Blake thought she would see was an extended losing streak. Unfortunately for the Westies, that is the exact position they are in.
Scoring five unanswered goals, Branford cruised to a 5-1 victory over the Westies at the Patsy DiLungo Rink in East Haven Saturday evening.
Veronica Lynn (66) and the Westies fell to Branford, January 30, 2016. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
"They (Branford) wanted it more," Blake said after her team fell to 6-7-1. "We didn't come to play."
After Celina Condon scored with 8:23 left in the opening period to get the Westies on the scoreboard, the rest of the game was all Branford. The Hornets added two goals in the second period and two more in the third off the stick of Sydney Hogan for the win.
Despite celebrating a goal by Celina Condon, the Westies fell to Branford, January 30, 2016. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
The Westies were led by Gabi Prisco, Veronica Lynn and Carlie Tammaro as all three rarely came off the ice in the loss. Condon and Francesca Criscuolo also played well, but that was not enough in the loss.
Alycia Sandella (17) and Lindsey Gerzabek (11) try to create a scoring opportunity in a loss to Branford, January 30, 2016. Photo courtesy of Todd Dandelske.
Kyleen Crowe made 14 saves in the loss for West Haven/Sacred Heart Academy.
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