PV did not let the perfectly idyllic setting of the Cate campus diffuse their focus as they came out running and gunning. Speed and explosiveness were the keys for Palos Verdes in this game both on face-offs and clears. Ryan Rheingold was a man possessed as he exited numerous face-off situations at the head of the pack and Cate players in tow as he sprinted down the field leading fast break chances. The Sea Kings did a good job of executing clears as well, especially when the ball got into the pocket of speedster Scott Novom, who has been hard for anyone to keep up with all year.

The speed advantage helped the Sea Kings post a 12-7 win and keep them undefeated on the year. Coming out strong with a 4-1 first quarter advantage, it was clear that attackman, Jon Spangler was “on” his game. His spatial familiarity around the goal enabled him to create open looks that resulted in a game-high 5 goals.

Cate responded well by tightening their defense and getting more physical in order to discourage Sea King forays too close into the crease area, something the PV defenders have been doing all year long. The scoring by both teams was even at four goals apiece during quarters two and three and with the score at 8-5 to begin the final quarter, we still very much had a game on our hands.

However, every time Cate made some noise during the fourth quarter, PV reached back into their reserves and was able to create something positive. The Sea Kings outscored Cate 4-2 in the final period to achieve the final 12-7 tally.

Contributing goals to this complete team effort were Adam Wagoner and Ryan Rheingold with two apiece and single goals by, Alex Richardson, Sammy Romer, and Brandon Hixenbaugh. Assists were spread around by David Scott, Nolan Semel, Romer and Novom.