NE Prep: Andover Makes Second Half Push

With a very disappointing performance at the Flood-Marr Tournament behind them, being outscored 14-4 and losing three of four games, Andover has played better hockey since the New Year. After posting three decisive wins last week, the Big Blue hope for a better second half of the season and look to qualify for a birth in the New England Tournament. The true test comes this week when they face the brass of the New England Prep Ranks: at No.10 Deerfield on Wednesday and host to No. 4 Belmont Hill Friday. A Valentine's Day match up still looms with No. 2 Cushing.

Joe Smith (2007), C, Andover

As captain of a young team, he shows great on-ice leadership .. Does a lot of little things well .. Makes tape-to-tape passes with accuracy and zip .. Moves well without the puck, in and out of traffic .. Showed soft hands and play-making ability .. Has a quick release shot and accurate one timer .. Works the top of the power play umbrella .. Smooth, head- up, skater who pivots and changes direction quickly .. Changes speed well and keeps defenders off balance .. Offensively he could be more creative .. Plays a simple smart game and knows where to be on the ice .. Defensively he never misses an assignment .. Leads the team with 19 goals and nine assists .. A player you would definitely want on your team .. Committed to Harvard in 2007

Bobby Farnham (2007), C, Andover

What he lacks in size (5-10 175), he certainly makes up for in intensity, grit, enthusiasm and aggression .. Has a motor that doesn't quit and excellent stamina .. Possesses elite speed .. Has a sharp powerful stride and quick choppy crossovers .. Accelerates well .. Demonstrated good puck pursuit and fore-checking ability .. At times was over matched physically, but never deterred in effort .. Plays hard every shift from start to finish .. Follows through on every check .. Puck-handling is a bit stiff .. Only a junior, but by far Andover's most exciting player

Stephen Bury (2007), LW, Andover

Has a solid frame and adequate strength .. Is strong on his skates and stick .. Good balance and low center of gravity .. Is able to win loose pucks along the wall and has shown decent vision and passing ability .. Is a sound skater with a burst of speed from time to time .. Not shy of contact or physical play .. Goes to the net with and without the puck .. Needs to show more passion and energy

Players to Watch:

Andrew Cox (2007), LW, Andover

Bennett Carroccio (2011), D, Andover