After a three game losing streak at the start of January by a combined score of 18-1, the Raiders Ice Hockey team bounced back with a positive four game stretch that included one tie and three wins.

To start off the four game stretch, the Raiders took on a ten-win Paramus team. The first period ended at a 2-2 standstill, but the Raiders ran away with the game, outscoring Paramus 2-1 in the second and third period. Senior Jason Wolff recorded a hat trick and senior Lleyton Soares, junior Brock Forrest, and sophomore Patrick Lewicki each added a goal. 

The Raiders then took on a tough Bridgewater-Raritan squad at home. The first period ended with a goal apiece from each team. However, in the second period the Raiders let up a quick goal to Bridgewater. The Raiders would match the goal only to let up another one. However, the Raiders were able to score quickly, ending the game in a 4-4 draw. Forrest finished with two goals, and seniors Mike LoRicco and Lleyton Soares each added one. 

Following Bridgewater, the Raiders took on the 6-15-1 Watchung Hills team. The Raiders cruised to a two goal lead and ended up winning by a score of 5-2. Forrest notched two goals and Soares added one. Wolff and Lewicki also got on the stat sheet as they each scored one goal. Junior Jake Silver got the start at goalie and recorded 21 saves.

To cap off the four game stretch, the Raiders dominated Nottingham by a score of 7-2. 6 different players scored and each goal was assisted on. The Raiders managed an astonishing 61 shots on goal, while Nottingham managed only 19 from a stout defensive effort by the Raiders. 

The Raiders could have folded after the rough three game stretch. However, they did quite the opposite heading into the final weeks of the season. With senior night and both the county and state tournaments looming, it was crucial the Raiders gained momentum. 

“The past four games have been strong, we’ve been able to give lots of players ice time and overcome some tough opponents,” Wolff said. “Once we have everyone back from injury and sickness we’ll be looking at a strong playoff push.”

The Raiders are back in action on Friday, Feb. 7 versus Manalapan for their senior night.