MIDDLETOWN, NJ– After a frantic first two games, the Black Bears went to New Jersey to see if they could close out the East Division semifinal with a sweep. After a quick start and some giant goaltending, the Black Bears swept New Jersey in three games with a 3-1 win in Game 3. 

Photo Credits : James Harding (TheArtOfPictures), Jon Pitonzo (Face Off Hockey Show Media Faction) & Kaleigh O’Connell (koc.pov)

An early power play for the Black Bears started the offense going for Maryland, with Dimitry Kebreau ripping home a drop pass from Sam Stitz for the captain’s second of the playoffs and to give Maryland the early lead. The Black Bears offensively continued to pepper the New Jersey net, but couldn’t find another goal in the first 20 minutes. Owen Lepak didn’t get tested much in the early part of the game, but stood solid in the first– including a big breakaway save to keep it a 1-0 game after 20 minutes. 

The Maryland offense continued against New Jersey, as the Black Bears continued to control even strength play. It cashed in for them at 6:31 of the second period, as Luke Janus put a backhander home under the crossbar for his first of the playoffs to make it 2-0 for the Black Bears. Lepak continued to play stellar when called upon, making several big saves with the defense clearing out the scrambles in front of the net. Thanks to that, the Black Bears went into the second intermission up 2-0. 

With their backs against the wall, New Jersey came out quick with Dominik Bartecko picking up a rebound and putting into the open side of the net in the first minute of the third to cut the Black Bears lead in half. While New Jersey pressed for a few minutes after their goal, Maryland was able to turn the tide a bit and create some offense of their own. Though New Jersey was looking for the equalizer, Lepak stood tall and Dimitry Kebreau was able to gain an empty netter to seal the win for the Black Bears by a count of 3-1. 

Maryland returns to the East Division final for the third time in four seasons. They will play the winner of the Maine and Rochester series, which has yet to be determined as of press time. Stay tuned to the Black Bears social media (@BlackBearsNAHL) for information about date, time, and tickets for the East Division final.

Write up courtesy of Scott Wasilewski

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