Judge repeats as state hockey champs

SALT LAKE CITY — Judge Memorial won its second consecutive state hockey title with a 5-2 victory over Viewmont Tuesday night at the Salt Lake City Sports Complex.

The Bulldogs will represent Utah at next month's USA Hockey National High School Championships in Coral Gables, Fla.

"We feel blessed," said Judge coach Tony Musci. "Our team has worked incredibly hard, made a lot of sacrifices to get to this stage and they've earned it."

Senior Nick O'Cain scored four goals and Matt Villar added one for Judge. Sam Taylor was credited with two assists, while Matt Villar and Daniel McNulty had one apiece. Goalie Robbie Brennan made 20 saves.

The Bulldogs pulled away from a 1-1 tie with three goals in the second period and one in the third — all by O'Cain.

Musci said the transfer from East High was "a man on a mission to win a state title."

After posing for pictures with his teammates, O'Cain acknowledged it felt awesome to win the championship.

"This is a dream come true," he said.

P.J. Tanner and Travis Koury netted goals for Viewmont. Goalie Trey Johnson stopped 15 shots.