The Cumberland Clippers defeated the Patriots by a score of 2-1 in Game 2 of the Semi-final Round of play in the State Championship Tournament, Friday night at Mount Saint Charles Academy.  It was the first time the Patriots had lost in regulation time since December 20. 

Cumberland scored twice in the first period, first at 7:11 and then 10:32.  The second goal for the Clippers came as they were shorthanded on a penalty kill.  The Patriots drew to within one goal early in the second period.  Matt Abraham sent a pass to defenseman Mac McDonald who fired a hard shot at the Clippers net minder from the top of the left faceoff circle.  The goalie stopped the initial shot but could not handle the rebound and the puck bounced to the right side of the goal crease where Matt Harrigan slapped it into the open net.  Neither team scored again in the contest.  Portsmouth generated some good scoring opportunities in the second and third periods, but was unable to get the puck past Cumberland’s goal tender.

The Patriots had just one penalty in the game, which they successfully killed.  The team had two power play chances but was unable to capitalize on having the man-advantage on the ice.  Portsmouth outshot Cumberland 29-28.

With the Patriots’ loss, the best of three series is now tied at one game each.  The third, and deciding, meeting between the two teams will be played Sunday, March 13, at 4:00 pm at the Abbey.  The winner will go on to face Coventry in the State Championship Finals.  The Oakers completed a sweep of their series with Prout yesterday evening to advance to the championship round.

Get out to the Abbey on Sunday and tell all your friends to come along, too.  This will be your last chance this season to see the Patriots Hockey Team on its home ice.  Help to pack the house and cheer the Patriots on to victory and a trip to the finals.  See you at the game!