With four state championships (’92, ’12, ’22, ’24) Suffern High School’s storied reputation as one of New York’s premier hockey programs has been well-earned. But Wednesday night at Playland, something happened that hadn’t happened since 1992:
Rye beat Suffern in hockey.
Rye’s come-from-behind 2-1 victory was a thrilling, total team effort by the Garnets. Trailing the Mounties 1-0 halfway through the final period, Rye exploded for two goals in 20 ice-shattering seconds. The first came from freshman Will Niejadlik, with assists by Jamie Morris and Alex Gordon. Seconds later, senior Tyler McDermott netted the game-winner off assists from Dean Kim and Drew Dolan.
Rye’s unshakable defense and goalie Fernando Mosquera (23 saves) held on through the final five minutes of the third to secure the win.
Rye record: 4-2-1
Next game: vs. Mamaroneck, 6 p.m. Friday, Jan. 10, at Playland