Framingham, Massachusetts — The Littleton/Bromfield boys hockey team showcased their offensive prowess and defensive strength in a commanding performance against Dover-Sherborn/Weston, securing a place in the state championship. In the state semifinal held on March 16, 2024, the No. 2 Tigers triumphed with a decisive 5-1 victory over the No. 3 Raiders. The win marks Littleton/Bromfield’s first appearance in the Final Four and sets the stage for a championship showdown at TD Garden.
Gavin Werling and Blake Hannon each scored two goals, leading the Tigers’ assault. Werling not only contributed to the scoreline but also set a new program record for points, surpassing the previous record of 127 to reach a total of 130. In a moment of reflection, he shared, “It honestly means the world. Head coach Kevin Lizotte is the best coach I’ve ever had. And the team we’ve got behind us, the town we’ve got behind us, it’s unreal.”
The match began with an early setback for Littleton/Bromfield, as the Raiders took a 1-0 lead just minutes into the game. Senior Caleb Curran scored from in front of the net, giving Dover-Sherborn/Weston hope as they aimed for their second state title since 2024. However, the Tigers quickly responded. With just over five minutes remaining in the first period, Werling found the back of the net from the top of the right circle, leveling the score at 1-1.
Shortly thereafter, Hannon maneuvered through traffic to score a stylish goal, putting Littleton/Bromfield ahead 2-1. Reflecting on the rapid turnaround, Werling noted, “The response to an early deficit was get a quick one back and then keep the foot on the gas from there, and that’s exactly what we did.”
Unstoppable Momentum
The second period saw Littleton/Bromfield maintain their momentum, even while facing a penalty kill. Liam Glew made pivotal defensive plays, blocking two shots before Werling seized a shorthanded opportunity and scored just 1:37 into the period. Hannon quickly followed up with his second goal of the night, extending the lead to 4-1.
Conor Glew capped off the scoring in the third period, finishing a play set up by Werling. The Tigers demonstrated impressive chemistry, which has been a hallmark of their season. Werling commented on their teamwork, stating, “We’ve got great chemistry between both lines.”
Despite trailing, Dover-Sherborn/Weston launched an aggressive attack in the third period, firing eight shots on goal within the first three minutes. Tigers goalie Jacob Dangel stood firm, amassing a total of 29 saves throughout the match.
As Littleton/Bromfield prepares for their upcoming final against No. 9 St. Bernard’s, the excitement in the community is palpable. Head coach Lizotte expressed his pride in the team’s achievements, saying, “It’s a proud moment. It’s a really good group of kids. I’m so happy for them. They just do what it takes.”
With the championship match on the horizon, both the players and their supporters are eager for what promises to be a historic occasion for the program.
