45°
Trinity Catholic boys ice hockey head coach Chris Gerwig almost went into the 2010-11 season with only one goalie. But Gerwig persuaded freshman Ben Fumaga to try out for the team to be Brian Romano's backup, knowing Romano would eventually need a day off.
Sure enough, Romano was out with the flu Tuesday, and Fumaga made his first career high school start for the Crusaders against Greenwich. Fumaga did an admirable job, holding the Cardinals scoreless in the first period. Eventually the hard-shooting Cardinals took advantage of Fumaga's inexperience, and Trinity lost, 5-1.
"I'm very proud of [Ben] for stepping in today," Gerwig said. "He did a great job going up against a team like Greenwich. They're a hard team to beat down here [at Dorothy Hamill Rink]."
Trinity outshot Greenwich but could not get the puck into the net until 1:48 left in the third period during a six-on-four advantage. Stephen Klosz scored the lone goal for the Crusaders.
Trinity had good opportunities to get on the board in the first period but could not solve Greenwich goalie Ricky Piper. The floodgates opened when Greenwich scored four goals in quick succession in the second period.
"We're a very young and inexperienced team. We've only got three seniors on this squad and only six with varsity experience," Gerwig said. "And credit to Greenwich for turning it on when they realized our goalie situation after the first period."
The loss brings Trinity's playoff hopes to the brink. The Crusaders need to win the rest of the season and get help to make the state tournament.
Do you think Trinity Catholic will fare better next hockey season? Start the discussion below.
Follow Eric Gendron on Twitter for the latest MSC sports coverage.
Click here to follow Daily Voice Stamford and receive free news updates.
