Howell-Matawan skated to a 6-2 victory over Southern in the Winding River Holiday Tournament held at Winding River Park in Toms River.
Leading Howell’s offensive attack were Travis Kimball and Larry Merrill, each scoring two goals. Kimball netted both of his goals in the second period, assisted by James Gonzalez-Rubio and Matt Cartigiano. Merrill opened the scoring for Howell in the first period and added another goal in the third.
Hayden Nubile had a strong all-around performance, contributing a goal and two assists. Additionally, Andras Nagy-Melykuti chipped in with a goal and an assist to help secure the win.
Southern got on the board first with a goal from Hank Swain. Noah Thompson scored Southern’s second goal in the third period, assisted by Santino Vilardi.
On the defensive side, Howell’s goalie Tyler Opuszynski made 10 saves on 12 shots, while Southern’s William Evans stopped 24 of 30 shots. Howell outshot Southern 30-12 over the course of the game.
Howell-Matawan improved their record to 5-3 with the win, while Southern fell to 3-5-1.
*Generative AI was used to write an early draft of this article, utilizing data from NJ.com sports. The article was reviewed and edited by NJ.com staff.*
https://www.nj.com/highschoolsports/2025/12/howell-co-op-defeats-southern-in-winding-river-holiday-tournament-boys-ice-hockey.html
