But there is reason to be optimistic heading into that difficult stretch of games. With yesterday's 9-5 victory over Blair, the Blue Devils improved to 7-1 and matched last year's win total. Among their triumphs was a 14-8 victory over defending Maryland 4A/3A West Region champion Sherwood on Monday. 

"Right now we're really excited," Pim said. "A lot of the pieces are starting to come together both offensively and defensively for us." 

Senior midfielder Lawrence Okwali has been a force on faceoffs for Springbrook; on Monday he scored four goals. Senior Brendan Reed has guided the Blue Devils' attack, while freshman Ben Simmons has been an impact player, scoring three or more goals in five of Springbrook's first seven games. 

Senior defenseman Dan Roe and junior goalie Brian Salant have led a defense that has allowed six goals or fewer in six games. Roe has been critical on clears, and on Monday he collected 13 ground balls. 

-- Jake Schaller 
 

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