SJHSHL varsity season opened last night with 3 games.
Perennial strength Cherokee was surprised by Holy Cross, who moved up to tier 1 after being the tier 2 champs last year; however, Cherokee prevailed and won by one goal in a close match.
Shawnee, who finished the regular season in 1st place but fell to Washington Twp in the playoffs last year, may have graduated several players, including their top goalie, but their first line is still intact. Shawnee played a young Rancocas Valley team that only features 2 seniors. The first period became a goal-fest, ending with Shawnee leading 5-4, as it became apparent that both goalies were young and nervous. Shawnee's speed worn out RV and the game ended 10-5 with Shawnee having 50+ shots on goal.
Cinnaminson & West Deptford both also moved up to tier 1 from tier 2 and faced each other at the Skate Zone in Pennsauken. I don't know the results of that game.
Cherokee faces Washington Twp this Friday at the Igloo. Township graduated 10 seniors last year, 3 were in the top 6 goalscorers of the league, but there's something in the water down there in Gloucester County. Township has always found talented players to replace those who leave. We'll see if that holds true this year.
township defeated cherokee 3-1 friday night at the igloo. township finished the last 8 minutes or so with their backup goalie after their starter was injured
