AJ Cuoto's unassisted goal at 8:27 of the third period and a smothering forechecking defense led Danvers to a 2-1 win over Swampscott Saturday in a close tilt between the Northeast Conference division leaders at Rockett Arena at Salem State University.
(2-1 Conference, 4-2 overall) took the early lead on a Gino Cresta goal, but that was it for the Blue scoring. Not that they didn't have a few good chances, but Danvers goalie Steve Wilkinson thwarted all comers. JD Hodgkins tied the game midway through the second period.
Find out what's happening in Swampscottwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
The Blue pressed and had its best chances in the third period, one on a Cresta breakaway and another in the waning moments when, with Hodgkins in the penalty box and goalie Patrick Sheehan pulled in favor of an extra skater, a Cresta shot deflected wide.
The win boosted the North Division leaders to 6-1, 6-2 overall.
Find out what's happening in Swampscottwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Swampscott dropped to 3-1 in the Division and face Saugus Wednesday night.