The top-seeded Delbarton varsity hockey team delivered another dominant defensive performance on Tuesday night, defeating fourth-seeded St. Augustine Prep, 2–0, in the semifinal round of the NJSIAA Non-Public Tournament at Codey Arena in West Orange.
With the victory, the Green Wave advance to the state championship game and move one win away from successfully defending their Non-Public title.
After a tightly contested and scoreless first period, Delbarton continued to apply pressure while limiting St. Augustine's offensive opportunities. The Green Wave defense gradually took control of the game, surrendering just eight shots over the final 30 minutes of play.
Senior goaltender Paul Insauto turned aside all 14 shots he faced to record his eighth shutout of the season, anchoring another strong defensive effort for Delbarton.
The breakthrough came late in the second period. With just 33 seconds remaining, Matteo Conte scored his first goal of the playoffs on the power play, finishing a beautiful backdoor pass from Michael Pirot to give the Green Wave a 1–0 lead heading into the final period.
Delbarton continued to clamp down defensively in the third, frustrating St. Augustine and preventing any sustained offensive pressure. The Hermits' best chance came from goaltender KJ Williams, who kept his team within reach with 29 saves on the night.
The Green Wave sealed the victory in the closing seconds when Aidan Pasic scored an empty-net goal with two seconds remaining to secure the 2–0 win.
Head coach Bruce Shatel credited the team's defensive structure and chemistry as key factors in Delbarton's continued success.
"There's great chemistry in that room and it's been real enjoyable to coach this group," Shatel said. "They understand who we are and we're built from the net out."
Delbarton will now prepare for the NJSIAA Non-Public State Championship game as the Green Wave look to complete their title defense against a tough Don Bosco squad who defeated St. Joseph Regional 1-0. The game is set for Monday, March 9 at 5:30pm from the Prudential Center in Newark.
