Since the Middletown Islanders moved from Division III to Division II in the 2010-11 season, they have become more than an Aquidneck Island rival for the Patriots, they have proven to be the team’s nemesis.  To this point in the three seasons that Middletown has played in the same sub-division as Portsmouth, the Islanders have not lost a game to the Patriots.  Friday night, they continued their domination of the series by shutting out Portsmouth 6-0 at the West Warwick Civic Center.

The Islanders scored once in the first period, twice in the second, and sealed the win with three goals in the third period.  Middletown outshot Portsmouth 27-22 in the contest.  Conor Struckman in goal for the Patriots had 21 saves.  The Patriots successfully killed two Middletown power plays in the contest, but were unable to capitalize on either of the two power play opportunities they had themselves.

The Patriots are in action again tonight when they return to their home ice to face off with the Knights of the Providence Country Day / Wheeler / Saint Raphael Academy Co-Op.  Every game is critical now for Portsmouth as the team fights for a spot in the playoffs.  Get to the Abbey, catch the action, and support the Patriots.  Game time is 7:30 PM.  See you at the rink.