Hopedale’s boys hockey team opened the season with a competitive showing but fell 5-3 to Auburn Monday night. The Blue Raiders gave themselves a chance by scoring in each period, yet Auburn’s second-period explosion, five goals in that period, proved decisive.
Hopedale got strong efforts from Ricky Nashawaty, who netted two goals, and Joshua Balzarini, who finished with a goal and an assist. Those contributions kept the Blue Raiders within striking distance, but Auburn’s Lucas Tully turned the game with a second-period hat trick, and Auburn finished the night with the edge.
The loss stings more because Hopedale performed well in spurts, generating chances and showing balanced scoring. Still, the second period was costly: the Blue Raiders must tighten defensive rotations and limit odd-man chances if they want to turn late-game opportunities into wins.
Hopedale won’t wait long for redemption; the Blue Raiders travel to Grafton tonight at 5:00 p.m. Grafton is also seeking answers after a 7-0 opener loss to Boston Latin, so this will be a chance for both teams to rebound. Expect Hopedale to look for steadier defensive play and continued scoring from Nashawaty and Balzarini.
