ANCHORAGE, Alaska — For the sixth time in 10 years, the semifinal round of the state 4A hockey championships will be comprised entirely of Cook Inlet Conference Schools. East, Dimond, Service and South all claimed opening round victories on Thursday at the Wasilla Sports Complex.
The T-birds began the day's action with a thrilling come-from-behind 3-2 victory over 2009 state champion Lathrop. East never led in regulation, but tied things up on a goal by Alex Jackstadt with 1:06 remaining in regulation. With the T-birds skating 6-on-4, Jackstadt let loose a shot that deflected off a Lathrop player's stick and over the shoulder of the goaltender. Joe Reynolds won it for East in overtime.
East will face South in the state semifinals. The Wolverines received a goal from Kyle Simmons 40 seconds into regulation and went on to defeat Wasilla 7-0 in their quarterfinal matchup.
The other side of the bracket will feature a Dimond versus Service semifinal. The Lynx overcame an early 1-0 deficit to knock off West Valley, 3-1. The Cougars blew past Palmer, 9-2.
