HOLLAND, Pa. — Upsets happen, especially in a COVID-19-marred season like 2020-21 and in a sport as unpredictable as hockey. Council Rock South was a victim of an upset in the first round of the Flyers Cup when they, the five seed, were knocked out by the 12 seed, Avon Grove.

Council Rock South has not let the defeat hold them back this year as they have been a force to start the season. The Golden Hawks have been a historically successful team, with only one losing season since 2015. The start of this season looks to be more of the same.

Council Rock South boasts a 5-1-1 record so far this season, including a statement 11-4 win over rival Council Rock North. The two teams hadn’t met since prior to the pandemic as Council Rock North didn’t play in 2020-21. Council Rock South hopes that the Rock Cup is only the first piece of hardware they bring home this season.

Council Rock South won their league, the SHSHL, most recently in 2020. Their quest to retake the title has only met a few hiccups this season. First, a 3-3 tie with Pennsbury, but any questions that game raised were stamped out when the Golden Hawks turned in a dominant performance in the rematch resulting in a 7-2 win. Second was a 5-0 loss to Pennridge, a team yet to lose. There is more to that game than meets the eye.

Council Rock South held even with Pennridge in shots but were stymied by goalie Ryan Pico who has been nearly unbeatable all season. Pennridge has been the only team stronger than Council Rock South in the SHSHL this season and their matchup scheduled late in the season could be a Flyers Cup preview.

Council Rock South has had a number of strong individual performances up to this point in the season aiding in their great start. Senior Julian Sarne, a major piece of the 2021 team, has led the team with 10 goals in seven games. Sarne has scored in every game aside from the Pennridge loss. Sophomore Kevin Koles is tied with Sarne for the team lead in points with 13, five of which came in the Pennsbury revenge game. Senior goalie Carson Lopez has flourished in his first year as the team’s full-time starter with a 92.7% save percentage. Lastly, the return of now captain, senior Matt Constantini, who didn’t play for the team last season, has brought leadership and veteran presence to the forward group.

With an experienced core, high end scoring and strong goaltending, Council Rock South has a clear road to the Flyers Cup Playoffs, and once they’re there, they have something to prove.

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