Penalty-prone Planets shut out Center

By DEREK PYDA Eagle Staff Writer

December 02, 2009 Last Updated: December 02, 2009 02:39 PM High School

Mars' Conrad Thibault (92) celebrates with teammate Elliot Tisdale, left, after Tisdale scored a goal in the third period of the Planets' 4-0 win over Center Tuesday.

WARRENDALE — The Mars High hockey team's defense has been solid so far this season.

On Tuesday night, it was incredible.

The Planets took a total of 24 minutes in penalties, including 8:43 in the second period, but still came away with a 4-0 win over Center at Warrendale BladeRunners.

"We've had that problem a few times this year, so killing penalties is something we've worked on a lot in practice," said Mars coach Steven Meyers.

Despite being short-handed for much of the game, the Planets (7-0) allowed only 11 shots on goal while compiling 41 themselves.

"We like to stay aggressive when killing penalties," Meyers said. "We keep a couple offensive guys on the ice because we like to keep that push up front."

Mars entered the game in first place in PIHL Section 2-A, while Center (5-2) was second.

The Trojans were averaging more than six goals per game, but the Planets left no doubt as to which team was better.

After making saves on the first seven shots he faced, Trojans goalie Nate Wormald gave up a goal to Eric Attanucci with 9:25 left in the first period.

The Planets then took advantage of their first power-play opportunity when Russ Miller found the net 4Z\x minutes later for a 2-0 edge.

Wormald did everything but stand on his head in the initial period, making 18 saves. He ended the night with 33.

Mars managed only six shots on goal and no scores in the second period due to five penalties in the final 14:05, but the Trojans managed only four shots themselves even though they played more than half the period on the power play.

Mars goalie Tyler Stepke finished the night with seven saves.

"Our defense and goaltending have been superb," said Meyers. "We've shut out four of our seven opponents.

"Our offense is coming along," he added.

Elliot Tisdale scored an even-strength goal and Kevin Leslie netted one on a power-play in the final period.

Tallying assists for the Planets were Greg Makozy, Nick Blaney, Tyler Whiteford and Tisdale.

Mars has outscored its opponents 48-6.

Trojans coach Jim Dolence was unavailable for comment.

Scoring SummaryMars 4, Center 0

First Period

M: Eric Attanucci (Greg Makozy), 4:35

M: Russ Miller (Elliot Tisdale, Nick Blaney), 10:00

Third Period