The Tsongas Center has been the scene of great goaltending through the years. The likes of National Hockey League star Connor Hellebuyck have put on memorable performances between the pipes for UMass Lowell, which has gained a reputation for producing top-notch goalies and future professionals.
The only goal of the game was scored off the stick of LC junior forward Matt Cabral. Assisting on the tally was senior forward Lucas Rego. The Crusaders advance to play top-seeded and defending state champion Tewksbury on Thursday p. Tewksbury 59, Amherst-Pelham Senior forward Ryan Cuvier poured in a team-high 20 points to lead the Redmen to the Division 2 preliminary round win. Senior guard Brian Carleton added nine points. Michael Mwaniki led the way with 17 points.
Ryan Blagg claimed 12 points, nine rebounds and four blocks. Magezi Nkugwa chipped in with nine points and six rebounds. Also shining was Tyler Allen with eight points and 11 rebounds.
Down at the half, the Lions outscored SJS to cut the lead to Chelmsford took a three-point lead in the fourth and had a shot to win it at the end of regulation with the score tied The Panthers led after one quarter, at halftime and after three quarters to advance.
Tommy Bergin was also outstanding with 10 points and 13 rebounds. The Panthers will play Thursday p. Westport Greater Lowell 61, Nipmuc The Gryphons pulled out a thrilling Division 3 preliminary round conquest on their home court in Tyngsboro. Greater Lowell led wire to wire, but the visitors were determined to make it a battle. Putting his stamp on this victory for Greater Lowell was Terrell Offutt, who tallied a game-high 33 points.
