In a dramatic showdown at the Gordon Cup Final, the Delbarton Green Wave secured a 4-3 overtime victory over Christian Brothers Academy (CBA) on Wednesday night, capping off an intense back-and-forth battle between two of New Jersey's premier high school hockey programs.
First Period: Delbarton Sets the Tone
The game began with high intensity as CBA struck first, with Anthony Brereton putting the Colts on the board very early in the first period. However, Delbarton responded swiftly and with authority. Egor Andreev netted the equalizer off a faceoff win by Jack Gerne. Just moments later, Ayden Puppe capitalized on a rebound off a Dante Rodriguez shot, giving Delbarton a 2-1 lead heading into the first intermission.
Second Period: Maintaining the Edge
Delbarton extended their advantage early in the second period, with Aidan Pasic finding the back of the net on a shorthanded breakaway to make it 3-1. The Green Wave's offense was clicking, and their defensive unit held firm against CBA's persistent attacks. However, the Colts clawed back into the game when Logan Kenney answered for CBA on the power play, narrowing the deficit to 3-2 by the end of the period.
Third Period: CBA Forces Overtime
With the championship on the line, CBA came out aggressive in the third period, pressing Delbarton's defense and testing goaltender George Cote. Their persistence paid off when Francesco Donohue buried the game-tying goal, bringing the score to 3-3. Despite multiple chances for both teams in the closing minutes of regulation, neither squad could break the deadlock, sending the game to a tense overtime period.
Overtime Heroics: Andreev Delivers the Cup
In the overtime frame, Delbarton wasted no time seizing the moment. Egor Andreev, already with an OT winner against CBA this season, emerged as the hero once again when he netted the game-winning goal through the legs of the goalie to clinch the Gordon Cup for the Green Wave. Andreev's second goal of the night sent the Delbarton bench into a frenzy as they celebrated their hard-fought victory with the loud and proud Green Wave Fan Zone.
Team and Player Performances
Delbarton's offensive firepower was led by Andreev, who not only bookended the scoring for the Green Wave but also played a crucial role in dictating play throughout the game. Puppe and Pasic each contributed vital goals, while Jack Gerne provided two assists to bolster the attack. Dante Rodriguez also added an assist, demonstrating Delbarton's depth in playmaking.
On the defensive end, goaltender George Cote was solid between the pipes, stopping 20 of 23 shots to backstop Delbarton to victory. His composure under pressure was instrumental in the Green Wave's ability to hold off CBA's relentless offense, espeically on three straight power plays.
A Championship to Remember
With this victory, Delbarton (16-1-1) adds another prestigious Gordon Cup title to its storied hockey history. As they celebrate this hard-earned championship, they also set their sights on further success in the upcoming state tournament.
