MALDEN — The Beverly High girls hockey team will have to wait another day to chase state tournament glory.
The Zamboni at Malden Valley Forum broke down while resurfacing the ice before warm-ups of Wednesday’s scheduled Division 1 first round game between the Panthers (15-5) and host Malden Catholic (7-11-2).
A pick-up truck had to drive onto the ice and tow the Zamboni off. After a delay of about 30 minutes, the game officials and coaches and athletic directors from both schools agreed that the ice wouldn’t be made playable on Wednesday and sent the teams and fans home.
Tentatively, the Panthers and Lancers will meet again for their state tournament clash on Thursday back at Malden Valley Forum at 7:10 p.m., but that’s pending repairs or finding a replacement Zamboni. Watch Twitter/X accounts @BeverlyPanthers and @MattWilliams_SN for updates and changes on Thursday morning.
The Northeastern Hockey League champions, Beverly is aiming for its first state playoff win in ten seasons. The MC/Beverly winner will face the winner of No. 3 Algonquin (20-1) and No. 30 Westford (11-7-2), which is also scheduled to be played on Thursday.
— Matt Williams