Upper St. Clair Hockey: Varsity Team News: NO CONTEST; USC Varsity 9 – Hempfield 0

From the initial drop of the puck to the final whistle the Panthers dominated an overmatched Hempfield Spartans team in a resounding 9-0 victory.  The lopsided contest mercifully featured a running clock from the 4:17 mark of the second period through the end of the game.  In fairness to the Spartans it should be noted that the PIHL elevated the team from the open division to AAA prompting the departure of several of their core players. 

The “game winning” goal came during the first shift—a mere 46 seconds in—when Parker Phillips buried a shot off assists from CJ Murray and Taylor Horrocks.  The deluge continued with the Panthers netting four goals in the first, four in the second and one for good measure in the third.  Goals came from seven different Panthers while nine contributed assists.  Matt Wregget and Mike Stein combined for the shutout facing a paltry 10 shots. 

Murray took down the scoring honors with two goals and two assists.  Other Panthers who hit the score sheet were: Phillips- 1 goal, two assists; Justin Selep- 2 goals; James Kline- 1 goal, 1 assist; Steve Gielarowski- 1 goal; Mike Segerdahl- 1 goal; Mitchell Lewis- 1 goal;  Taylor Horrocks and Andrew Schmitt- 2 assists each and Rob Schneid, Ryan Haleski, JH Columbus and Mike Sweeney- 1 assist each. 

Although the degree of difficulty might not warrant it, the game still counts for two points in the PIHL standings.  The Panthers are well-aware there are precious few breathers during the onerous regular season so it’s necessary to take full advantage.  In fact, in a scheduling quirk, USC’s next game is a rematch against the always intractable Blackhawks of Bethel Park. 

The game is slated for Thursday, November 5 at 8:20 p.m. in Bethel Bladerunners.  Be there!