Redhawks become Golden on Senior Night
The Montclair State men’s hockey team returned from winter break with a strong offensive showing, defeating Westchester University 8-4 on Friday, January 15, in a Senior Night matchup at home.
Before puck drop, the Red Hawks honored nine seniors for their contributions to the program: Anthony Vella, Jacob Liebross, Lucas Longo, Justin Rozycki, Greg Oliveri, Braden Ryan, Ryan Gorman, Antonio Crispino, and Robert Quinn.
Westchester struck first, scoring just two minutes into the opening period. Montclair State responded quickly, as Braden Ryan used his speed to break through the Golden Rams’ defense and even the score. Westchester regained the lead shortly after, but Montclair began to assert control late in the period. Jacob Liebross tied the game, and Marcos Trasbach followed with a go-ahead goal off a feed from Ryan, giving the Red Hawks a 3–2 lead heading into the first intermission.
Montclair continued to build momentum in the second period. Robert Quinn extended the lead two minutes in, and following a Westchester roughing penalty, the Red Hawks capitalized on the power play, with Ryan scoring his second goal of the game. Greg Oliveri added another with three minutes remaining in the period. Although Westchester found the net late in the frame, Montclair maintained a commanding 6–3 advantage entering the third.
The Red Hawks remained aggressive in the final period, limiting Westchester’s opportunities while continuing to generate offense. Ryan completed his hat trick with a goal assisted by Michael Sadowski, and Oliveri recorded his second goal of the night midway through the period. A late goal by Westchester in the final minute had no impact on the outcome.
Montclair State closed out the contest with an 8–4 victory, showcasing offensive depth and disciplined special teams play in a decisive Senior Night performance.
The Red Hawks will travel to Rider University on Friday, January 23, for an 8:30 p.m. contest before returning home on Saturday, January 24, to host Rowan University at 8:00 p.m.
Written by Meghan Lipscomb
