Chartiers Valley wins PIHL Class A title
Colts fall in state finals
For the first time in 38 years, Chartiers Valley hoisted a Penguins Cup. However, the Colts failed to add a Pennsylvania Cup to their collection.
After winning their first PIHL title since 1986 with a come-from-behind overtime win, 2-1, against Greensburg Salem in the Class A final played March 19 at the UPMC Lemieux Sports Complex in Cranberry, the Colts traveled to Havertown on March 23 to compete in the state finals. There they dropped a 4-2 decision to Hershey at the Haverford Skatium.
The Colts appeared poised to claim the Pennsylvania Cup as they skated to a 2-0 lead. In the first period, Noah Callender registered both tallies. The breakaway goals came less than a minute apart.
The Colts, who only surrendered two goals in three Penguins Cup playoff games, gave up four goals against the Trojans, including the go-ahead tally by Kyle Kloss with 4:47 left in the game.
While the loss prevented the Colts from completing an undefeated season, they finished 23-1-0 overall, it did not negate an otherwise successful year. They captured the Varsity A Blue division before embarking on their Penguins Cup run.
After beating Moon, 4-0, and Indiana, 2-1, to reach the PIHL A final, the Colts edged Greensburg Salem (18-6-1) for the title. Tyler Held scored the game-winning goal at 1:42 into overtime.
At 10:49 in the third period, Romeo Isoldi was credited with the equalizer when he deflected a shot by Brayden Knight into the net.
In addition to Knight, Austin Efthimiades was credited with an assist on the goal that tied the match, 1-1, and forced overtime.
After a scoreless first period, Carter Cherok propelled Greensburg Salem (18-6-1) into the lead, 1-0.
Jake Fink assisted on the goal that occurred 37 seconds into the second period.
In the nets, Matthew Colberg faced 28 shots, turning back 27 for the Colts, who put 21 shots on goal against Tristan Gonzales.
During the year, Colberg led the PIHL with seven shutouts, including one in the playoffs. Additionally, CV had one of the stingiest defenses, allowing only 26 goals before the loss to Hershey.
During the regular season, Callender led all of Class A in scoring with 30 goals.