Snapshots: Lions boys' hockey captures first win of season

NSHS boys hockey, 12/23/2025

Forward Charley Margolis (21) skates up the ice during a home game at the John A Ryan rink. (c) Burt Granofsky/Newton Beacon

The Newton South boys hockey team nabbed their first win of the 2025-26 season on December 23, coming from behind to defeat Norton 4-3 in overtime at John A Ryan arena in Watertown.

Lions goaltender Jakob Johed let up one goal in the first period, but blanked Norton in the second frame, keeping his team within striking distance.

Norton added two more in the third period, but South’s Simon Yelensky, Zane Tucker, and Wes Moore all responded, tying the game at 3 and sending it into overtime. A goal from junior forward Zach Firkusny in the extra frame gave South their first win of the season.

It was a gritty performance from a team that is still building its identity and that has prioritized defense early in the season.

“We’re focused on our defensive zone, we’re trying to make sure we are locking things down to try to give ourselves a chance late in games,” said head coach Gabe Feldstein.

The win brings South to a record of 1-3 on the season. Last year, the South boys hockey team compiled a record of 5-16, and was seeded 32 in the 33-team Division II state tournament.

Gabe Feldstein is in his third season as head coach of the Newton South boys varsity hockey team. “It’s a great group of guys,” he says. “Last year we made the tournament, and I think it would be great to get back there.” (c) Burt Granofsky/Newton Beacon

Goaltender Jakob Johed (1) leads the Newton South Lions onto the ice before a game against Norton on December 23, 2025. (c) Burt Granofsky/Newton Beacon

Jakob Johed (1) minds the net for the Lions. Johed gave up one goal in the first period and blanked Norton in the second, keeping his team in the game. (c) Burt Granofsky/Newton Beacon

Newton South players adjust their helmets and prep their gear ahead of the game. (c) Burt Granofsky/Newton Beacon

Forward Zach Firkusny (11) checks a Norton player into the boards in the second period. Firkusny would score the winning goal in overtime, lifting South to its first win of the season. (c) Burt Granofsky/Newton Beacon

Defender Josh Hong (12) takes the puck up the ice during the second period of a game against Norton on December 23, 2025. (c) Burt Granofsky/Newton Beacon

The Lions bench reacts to a big hit during a game against Norton. (c) Burt Granofsky/Newton Beacon

Zane Tucker (23) scored one of South’s three goals in the third period, helping to send the game into overtime. South would win the game 4-3 on an overtime goal. (c) Burt Granofsky/Newton Beacon