Blue Hockey Skates Past Salem 7-1

Senior Captain Gino Cresta posted a hat trick and freshman Ryan Cresta scored his first varsity goal Tuesday as rolled to a 7-1 win over the Salem Witches.

Blue got goals from all three lines and competed hard all three periods in their first game of the year, played at Salem State University's Rockett Arena, said coach Gino Faia.

Defensemen chipped in with the scoring, as well, including a tally by Chris Carman.

Chris Finlay and Corey Carmody scored the other two goals.

Assists came from Trevor Massey, Nunzio Moretti, Robert Serino, Griffin Hunt, Matt Videtta, Chris Carman and Gino Cresta.

Senior goalie Patrick Sheehan had 12 saves.

The Swampscott vs. Salem hockey rivalry is big for the skaters because many of them grew up playing in Salem/Swampscott youth hockey, the coach said.

Last year Swampscott split the season series with their rivals, losing the first game.

This year's team has more experience and strength, the coach said.

"We're no longer relying on freshmen and sophomores," he said.

The players are bigger and stronger and have played together.

"The chemistry is definitely there," he said.

Faia expects the team to compete in all its games.

They play next on Saturday at 1 against Revere at Salem State.