Mark Nocerino posted his first varsity shutout and Longwood scored twice in the first period on the way to a 3-0 win over Northport/Huntington on Monday night at The Rinx – North Rink. Longwood, whose varsity program is back after a multi-year rebuild through the freshman and JV levels, earned its first win and improved to 1-0-1-0. Northport/Huntington dropped to 0-2-0-0.
Longwood came out flying, and its student section, loud and out in numbers, had plenty to chant about early. Michael Gaudiello finished a pass from Jeremy Maresca with 12:16 left in the first period for the eventual game-winner, with Christopher Ballaro also assisting. Maresca then made it 2-0 with 10:56 remaining, finishing a three-on-two rush set up by Connor Girard. The two goals came 1:20 apart.
The game turned physical after that, and the 2-0 score held through a scoreless second period. Northport/Huntington goaltender Rex Moscati kept his team within reach with a string of highlight-reel stops in the middle frame, and the visiting fans responded loudly each time. Kevin Sherwood was a steady two-way presence for Northport/Huntington, adding physical play and zone entries while his team committed to blocking shots.
Luke Buck put the game away with 3:33 left in the third, burying a one-timer off a rebound for his first point of the season. Brandon Nicotri and Gaudiello assisted. Buck also blocked shots throughout the night, and Gaudiello showed good defensive awareness when he broke up a two-on-one. Gaudiello and Maresca each finished with a goal and an assist, while Girard drove possession for Longwood all game.
Nocerino was sharp through a strong final period to complete the shutout. Moscati allowed three goals and took the loss. Longwood returns to the ice Wednesday against Sachem Hockey Club, while Northport/Huntington faces St. Anthony’s on Sunday.
