Wildcats Hockey Bounces Back to Earn Semifinal Berth

Even after a 5-2 first round win, there wasn't cause for much celebration in the Wilmington High School locker room on Tuesday night. Friday night at Stoneham Arena, however, was a different story.

"Last game we won, but back in the locker room it was like a loss. Everyone was not talking, down on themselves because we knew we played bad," said McDonough. "This game, we were celebrating because it was a good game and we knew we played well. But we can always build on our game."

McDonough led the Wildcats with two goals in the quarterfinal round as Wilmington erased an early 1-0 deficit and went on to a 4-1 win. After Boston Latin led into the second period, McDonough tied things up, Dylan DiNatale put the locals ahead, Cam Owens added a transition tally and McDonough capped the scoring.

With the win, the team advanced to Monday's North Division 2 semifinal against Lincoln-Sudbury at Chelmsford Forum. Puck drops at 8:10 p.m.

"The kids didn't panic. And there's some of your tournament experience right there," said Scanlon. "I like the team wins where you can use all your players. It's a good way to get a win. We're thrilled to be moving on and I think we may be snapping out of it. We're a good team, and I think we really wore them down."

Check back with Wilmington Patch on Monday for more video from Friday night's game.

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