Hockey: Chemics’ title hopes dashed

by Cory Butzin

Trenton’s defense and speed proved too much Saturday as the Trojans took advantage of a tired Midland High hockey team to score three second period goals on its way to a 3-0 victory over the Chemics in the Division 2 state championship at Compuware Sports Arena in Plymouth.

“We played a good team,” said Midland coach Jeff Brown. “I think we were a little light in the tank from Thursday night (the Chemics’ 2-1 victory over Farmington), but I’m very proud of these guys. They played their hearts out.”

Despite playing three grueling playoff games in less than a week – including overtime games Tuesday and last Saturday – Midland was anxious and energetic in the opening period. But despite having two power plays, the Chemics were unable to make a dent on the scoreboard. Alex Sepesy stood strong in net, making eight first period saves to take a scoreless game into the second.

That’s when Midland ran out of steam.

“Coming into the game I didn’t really notice or think about being a little light in the tank from the other night,” said Midland senior captain Kevin Alcott. “But going through the game I couldn’t argue with that statement.”

At 1:24 of the second period, Scott Henegar assisted on a Cory Deback goal to give the Trojans a 1-0 lead. Five minutes later Kody Polin added a goal of his own to push Trenton’s lead to two. Camden Wojtala and Blake Mikolajewski were credited with assists.

After those early goals, the Chemics seemed to settle down. However, a roughing penalty put them a man down and the Trojans took advantage when Mikolajewski converted on the power play to give Trenton a commanding 3-0 lead. Wojtala and Josh Miller assisted on the goal.

“I think all those overtimes finally caught up with us today,” said Midland senior captain Blake Benner. “It’s something that you don’t think about. (But) as you’re going, you can feel it draining and draining.”

Midland settled down in the third but was unable to generate quality scoring chances as the Trojans coasted to the win.

“We’ve played a lot of good teams this season,” Alcott said. “But I don’t think anyone that we’ve played can compete with Trenton. I think they’re obviously the best team we’ve played.”

Trenton goalie Marco DeGrazia made 14 saves in preserving the shutout. Sepesy stopped 21-of-24 shots for Midland.

The Chemics finish the season with a record of 23-3.

Meanwhile, the Trojans finish with a record of 25-1-4 and the Division 2 state championship, their 11th in school history.

Due to MHSAA restrictions MidlandSports.com is only able to sell 20 different photos from Saturday’s game. If you are interested in purchasing any of the photos please contact Cory Butzin at cory@midlandsports.com. Photos will be sold on a first come, first serve basis until we have reached the limit.

Photos by Cory Butzin & Jason Wolverton