After suffering a debilitating 1-6 loss to Phillips Exeter Academy earlier this season, Andover Boys Hockey looks to add a win to its 12-12-1 season as it fights for a spot in the playoffs. Last season, the team fell 3-4 to Exeter in a close overtime match early in the season but turned around to defeat Exeter 5-2 at Andover/ Exeter Weekend in 2017.
In preparation for this Saturday’s game, Andover is focused on outworking Exeter and winning the small battles on the ice, according to Christian Powers ’19.
“[Exeter’s] strengths are that they play really well together, and [that it is] a big and fast team that competes. The way to beating a team like that is to outwork it and win the one-on-one battles in the corners. If we can gain momentum in these, it’ll translate into our zone play and help us play as a team better,” said Powers.
He continued, “The key to success in a game like [this] is teamwork. If we check our egos and adhere to what our coaches tell us to do, we will do super well. We just need to stick to our systems, play as a team, and have each other’s backs out there.”
As Andover vies for playoff spot, a strong performance on Saturday is crucial, according to Charlie Archer ’20.
“Obviously, we’re all a little nervous for A/E. It’s an important game for us making the playoffs, and it is a good team. At the same time, we’re all really excited. Playing Exeter is always really fun. The whole team is looking forward to it,” said Archer.
Andover Boys Hockey will host Exeter at home at 4:00 p.m. on Saturday.
