Burrell wins Division 2 Pennsylvania Challenge Cup, 8-3

Burrell's hockey team won the first Division 2 Pennsylvania Challenge Cup on Saturday at the RMU Island Sports Center. After losing the PIHL championship earlier in the week, the Buccaneers played with energy and determination. Luke Mink, a forward for Burrell, scored two early goals, helping the team secure an 8-3 victory over Pope John Paul II. The Buccaneers had just lost to Morgantown, West Virginia, in the championship game and were eager to perform better. Mink expressed their frustration after the loss, saying, "We came out flying." The Patriots, who were champions of the Inter County Scholastic Hockey League, faced a tough challenge. Their coach, Tom Puhl, noted that the long journey to the game was difficult for some players. However, he saw value in the experience for his team. In the first period, Burrell scored quickly, taking a solid lead. Mink scored again following an initial goal from Fink, putting the Buccaneers ahead 2-0. Burrell's strong forechecking kept the Patriots struggling to keep possession. At one point, Pope John made a comeback, cutting the score to 5-3. But Burrell responded strongly, and Dante Taliani scored two quick goals to seal their victory. Taliani had a standout performance with five points. Players like Jared Wall and Ryan Burkett contributed significantly, and Wall noted that winning this game was a nice boost for Burrell as they prepare for nationals. They are eager to carry this momentum into future competitions.