St. Francis Takes First Niagara Cup

By Janet Schultz, NYHOL; Photos by Janet Schultz©2021 NYHOL

St. Francis took home their first Niagara Cup Friday evening after defeating Canisius High School 4-0 in Section VI Federation Ice Hockey Championships.

St. Francis got on the Board in the first period with a goal by Michael Clouden from Ty Broad. With 4 Shots on goal and 5 for Canisius the period ends 1-0 in favor of St. Francis.

Canisius had an opportunity to tie when Don Urban was awarded a penalty shot in the opening minutes of the second period. St. Francis Goaltender Sam Cureo held him back and the St. Francis took the puck into the net twice to end the period 3-0. Ryan Peterson and Gavan Schwenkbeck got the goals.

Canisius changed goaltenders from Ronald Cauley to John Susz late in the second period. The third period opened and Brian Schiltz sealed the deal for St. Francis with the fourth goal of the game.

Goalie Sam Cureo was named game MVP for stopping all 25 shots by Canisius. With no on-ice ceremonies this season, the awards will be presented to the players at another time.