The week of December 22 to December 28 promises thrilling ice hockey action across New Jersey, featuring several key matchups. Fans can look forward to competitive games, especially with the holiday season upon us, although there will be no games on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day.
Monday, December 22 Highlights
The week kicks off with the game between Gov. Livingston-New Providence (1-3) and Cranford (0-6) at 18:35. Gov. Livingston-New Providence, one of the stronger programs in the co-op group, has faced a challenging start to the season. Their recent 4-3 victory against Middletown North marks their first win. They will seek to build on this success against a struggling Cranford team, which will be eager to secure its first win and move up in the McInnis division standings.
Another exciting matchup sees Ridge (4-3) face off against Livingston (4-1) at 20:30. The Red Devils have shown resilience after a rough patch, recently snapping a three-game losing streak with a 4-2 win over North Hunterdon-Voorhees. Meanwhile, Livingston has been performing well, boasting a recent 5-1 victory against Chatham.
In the afternoon, Woodbridge-Colonia-Iselin Kennedy (3-1) will take on North-South Brunswick-Monroe (5-2) at 15:00. South Brunswick is currently in contention for a divisional title, while Woodbridge will seek to improve its conference performance after a narrow loss to Old Bridge.
KJS United (2-1-1) will visit Morristown (3-2) at 20:30. KJS United has dominated their previous encounters with Morristown, winning three in a row. Morristown, however, is in the hunt for a strong showing in the Mennen Division and will look to turn the tide after a mixed performance in recent games.
Tuesday, December 23 Key Matchups
Tuesday afternoon will feature a highly anticipated clash between Bridgewater-Raritan (5-1) and Westfield (4-0) at 15:30. Westfield, the reigning Public state champions, has been formidable this season, outscoring opponents 27-3. Bridgewater-Raritan counters with a powerful scoring duo, Alex Kotelnikov and Alex Abolenskiy, which could pose a challenge for Westfield’s defense.
North Hunterdon-Voorhees (4-2-1) will face Robbinsville-Allentown (7-1) at 15:30. North Hunterdon-Voorhees aims to capitalize on a strong start, while Robbinsville has maintained a high-scoring offense, averaging over four goals in their victories despite dealing with several injuries.
Christian Brothers (6-0) will take on St. Joseph (Mont.) (2-1-1) at 18:00 in a top-five matchup. After a successful run in the Shore Conference, Christian Brothers will face a tough opponent in St. Joseph, known for its robust defense.
Marlboro-Holmdel (2-4) will meet Toms River (5-0) at 16:00. This rematch of last year’s sectional semifinal could provide significant insights into both teams’ current form.
Brick (5-0) will visit Howell-Matawan (3-3) at 16:15. This matchup brings back memories of last year’s quarterfinals, where Howell-Matawan emerged victorious. Both teams will look to assert their dominance in this encounter.
Bergen Catholic (3-2) is set to clash with Don Bosco Prep (5-1) at 18:00. Known for their fierce rivalry, both teams are coming into this game with high stakes, especially Don Bosco, which has won four straight games.
Friday, December 26 Matchups
The post-Christmas schedule begins with Middletown North (5-2) taking on Northern Highlands (4-2) at 16:00. Middletown North seeks to overcome a recent dip in form, while Northern Highlands aims to solidify its position as a title contender.
Ridgewood (4-1) will face Ramapo (5-1) at 18:30, marking their second meeting in the season. Ridgewood won the first matchup, and Ramapo will need to tighten its defense to succeed this time.
Bridgewater-Raritan (5-1) will again face Brick (5-0) at 18:30, presenting a crucial test for both teams as they look to assert their status in the league.
The Winding River Holiday Tournament will kick off with Manasquan-Point Beach (5-0-1) competing against Middletown South (3-2) at 12:00. With both teams eager to make a statement, this game is bound to draw attention.
Saturday, December 27 and Sunday, December 28
Saturday features KJS United (2-1-1) visiting Morristown-Beard (6-0-1) at 16:15. Morristown-Beard is currently leading the Mennen Division standings and will look to maintain that position against a competitive KJS United team.
Madison (6-1) will take on Park Regional (5-2-1) at 20:15. After a strong start last season, Madison seeks to continue its winning streak against a Park Regional team that has faced challenges recently.
On Sunday, West Milford-Pequannock-Pompton Lakes (3-3) will play West Essex-Caldwell (3-2) at 15:00. Both teams are looking to assert themselves in the Co-op North section, with West Milford aiming to improve its defense while West Essex comes in hot with three consecutive wins.
With an exciting line-up of games, ice hockey enthusiasts can look forward to a week filled with passion, rivalry, and high-stakes competition.
