The PMHS ice hockey team took down No. 3 ranked John Jay in Thursday’s Section 1, Division II semifinal. The match was the Pelican’s last home game of the season, sending the team to the Section 1, Division II finals on Sunday against Rye with high hopes.

Thursday’s game against John Jay started with quick responses from senior captain Luke Green and junior Zyde Karame giving the Pelicans a 2-1 lead entering the 2nd. The Wolves persisted, taking the lead after two rapid goals with 14:54 left in the second period. Pelham continued to play at a top level, and a goal and assist from senior Angus Deeney was enough to help the Pelicans snatch back the lead going into the 3rd. Ultimately, goals from senior Chris Franchini and sophomore Reid Finster were enough to push Pelham over the edge, with a final score of 6-3.

“Getting back to the section championship is something our guys worked hard for and we’ve earned this opportunity,” said captain Luke Green. “The Rye-Pelham rivalry is a great one, and the fact that we get to play each other one last time for hardware is something special.”

The sectional final is Sunday at the Sport-O-Rama Hockey Rink at 1 p.m against longtime rivals Rye for a chance at a spot in regional playoffs. A Sunday win versus the Garnetts would send the Pelicans to either Glen Falls Recreation Center or HarborCenter for an opportunity to return to Buffalo. Pelham hopes to repeat last season’s success, entering the NYSPHAA Championship as the 1st overall seed, ultimately returning home as state champions.