High School Ice Hockey: Cherokee Knocks off Clearview and Advances to Finals Monday, February 25, 2002 By Mike Costantino SJSports Staff Writer Sean Zahacewski scored two goals while Chris Sabol stopped thirty shots as Cherokee defeated Clearview 4-1 to sweep the series and advance to the finals in the SJHSIHL against Washington Township. Clearview scored its only goal early in the game taking a 1-0 lead as Bill Dunbar put home a rebound off a shot by Joe Smith. Cherokees' offense started slow and their first shot on goal came almost five minutes into the game, but it was on the power play. Mike Scian found the five hole and the game was tied at 1-1. Midway through the period Cherokee took the lead for good as Pat Henderson skated down the right side and found Jason Dragum in the slot and his one-timer found the net to make the score 2-1. Clearview kept the pressure on but Sabol made several close in saves, one on Gunnar Fox and then he stoned Jon Probe. With less than twenty seconds left in the period, Zahacewski broke in all alone and scored to put Cherokee up 3-1. After a scoreless second period that saw Clearview have a two-man advantage for ninety seconds, including three point blank chances, once again Sabol kept them at bay. Despite being out shot 13-4 in the period the game remained 3-1 heading into the final period. Early in the third period Chris Riggs for Clearview broke in and was turned aside by Sabol with a quick glove save. Cherokee with a three-goal lead played dump and chase most of the period as their coach stressed defense first. Zahacewski added an empty net goal to seal the deal and a trip to the finals. Photos by Art Redd

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