Nothing in the Solvay ice hockey team’s 3-3 start indicated that, when Skaneateles paid a visit to State Fair Coliseum, it would face any serious trouble.
With its deep lineup and punishing defense, the Lakers were sure to skate into the Coliseum and have its way.
But the Bearcats, eager to make a point against its neighbor and biggest on-ice rival, played with passion and inspiration, then made all the plays down the stretch to finish off a shocking 3-0 shutout of the Lakers.
Through a scoreless first period, Skaneateles kept taking shots at the Solvay net, only to see goaltender Ryan Bonk scoop them up, masterfully patrolling the crease.
The Bearcats got its share of chances, too, and twice put shots past Laker goalie Trevor Diamond in the second period to break a 0-0 deadlock before adding an insurance goal in the final period.
For the fourth consecutive game, Tim Burgess had a hand in every Solvay goal, scoring twice and assisting on Len Graf’s tally. Mike Sniffen and Josh Ginestro each had one assist.
Every time Skaneateles threatened, Bonk turned them away, finishing with his best effort of the season as he got 32 saves for a memorable shutout.
Solvay then got four days to savor the victory before a Saturday trip to the north country to face Watertown IHC. Skaneateles takes a weekend trip to the Buffalo area for games against Clarence and Williamsville North.
