The Rome Free Academy hockey team opened its season in impressive style on Friday as the Black Knights skated to a 6-2 victory over rival Clinton in a Division II East Conference matchup during the first round of the Utica College Tournament at the Utica Memorial Auditorium.
The Reilley brothers were the heart of the Black Knights’ offense, with older brother T.J. leading the squad with two goals and two assists, while his younger brother Garrett had one goal and three assists.
Max Bartell also put on a strong night with two goals and one assist, while Matt DeMatteo fired in one goal and contributed with one assist. Nick Tardugno and Mike Pekarski each had one assist for RFA.
Goalie Mike Endres had 20 saves in the net for Rome, as RFA also outscored Clinton 3-1 on power-play opportunities.
The Black Knights were scheduled to face off against defending state champion New Hartford in the championship game this afternoon.
The Spartans advanced to the championship by defeating Whitesboro, 10-0, on Friday.
Bulldogs chew up first win
Westmoreland opened its season with a 5-1 victory over the Oswego B team in the first round of the Central Square Tournament.
Chet Galinski led the way for the Bulldogs with two goals and one assist, while Alex Foster, Dean Agen and Ryan McDowell each picked up one goal.
Foster, McDowell, Marc Donahue and Dylan VanDresar each had an assist as well.
Goaltender Brandon Crane grabbed 15 saves in the net for the Bulldogs.
Westmoreland moves on to play the winner of the Proctor-Central Square matchup today at 5:30 p.m.
