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Pa. Boys: St. Joseph's Prep awaits Pioneers

Jake O'Brien won 11 of 14 faceoffs and A. J. Simon was sharp in goal as St. Joseph's Prep posted its easiest PIAA state tournament victory Tuesday with a 15-5 triumph over Mount Lebanon in the semifinals.

Jake O'Brien won 11 of 14 faceoffs and A. J. Simon was sharp in goal as St. Joseph's Prep posted its easiest PIAA state tournament victory Tuesday with a 15-5 triumph over Mount Lebanon in the semifinals.

The Hawks (19-4), winners of the District 12 title, will face District 1 champ Conestoga for the state championship at 3 p.m. Saturday at HersheyPark Stadium.

The senior-dominated Hawks, who start eight 12th graders, were led by Anthony Marini's four goals, Jeff Heath's three scores, and Jeff Watts' two goals and three assists in a balanced attack that produced goals from eight players.

"We knew Mount Lebanon was a good opponent and came out and played our game," Prep coach Eric Gregg said. "We matched their physicality, played good defense, and had a strong transitional game."

The Hawks' defense, anchored by eight saves from Simon, features an all-senior crew of twins Pat and Will Farrell, Clint Barber, Connor Dent, Dan Crawford, and Jim Hurley.

Mount Lebanon (18-4) won the District 7 and WPIAL titles, and is ranked No. 10 in the Pa. Media Rankings' state top 10. St. Joseph's Prep is ranked No. 3.