High School Ice Hockey:
Shawnee Puts Away Rancocas Valley

Friday, December 4, 1998

By Gary Finigan
SJSports Special Correspondent

At the Medford Ice Rink, Rancocas Valley hosted Shawnee in a match of South Jersey High School Hockey action. Derek Megargel for the Renegades had two goals and an assist in the victory. Dan Rybeck and Kevein Eppolite each had a goal in the 4-1 win.

The first period started with Shawnee applying early pressure. Just 41 seconds into the game the Renegades scored. Controlling the puck in the RV zone, Kevin Eppolite took the shot from the left point. Dan Rybeck was at the right side of the net to tuck the rebound past the Rancocas Valley goalie's stick side for the 1-0 lead. Derek Megargel assisted on the play. Rancocas Valley came back to tie the score at 1-1 with a shorthanded goal. Ronnie McElhorne picked up a loose puck behind the Renegade net. With a quick move he wrapped the puck around the net to score. Shawnee bounced back with continued offensive pressure. At the 2:02 mark, Kevin Eppolite put the shot on net from the point. A waiting Derek Megargel scored off the rebound to put the Renegades up 2-1.

Second period action saw Shawnee increase its lead over Rancocas Valley. Controlling the puck in the RV zone, Dan Rybeck took a shot from the left face off dot. Once again, Dan Megargel was positioned for the rebound. Taking a quick shot off the rebound, the RV goalie was in place for the save. Megargel controlled his own rebound and flipped the puck into the goal for a 3-1 Shawnee lead. Constant Shawnee pressure pushed the lead to 4-1. Gaining control of the loose puck in the slot, Kevin Eppolite scored unassisted for the games final tally.

The third period was a display of Renegade offensive opportunities. Continuing to take the puck to the Rancocas Valley net, Shawnee missed several scoring chances. The Rancocas goaltender made some spectacular saves to keep the score at 4-1 for the final.

Shots on goal: Shawnee 44, Rancocas Valley 14

Photos by Gary Finigan