LYNN — The Lynn Jets hadn’t beaten Somerville in seven years — and didn’t want to make it eight.
With Wednesday’s 4-1 Greater Boston League victory, Lynn upped its record to 7-8 after a six-win season last winter. Outside of Division 3’s top 32 teams, those that finish .500 or better qualify for a play-in game.
The Jets need to take three of their next five to qualify.
“We’re three wins away from getting a play-in game in the state tournament — that’s the biggest push for these guys,” said coach Brian Boisson.
Just ask Boisson. His players were “buzzing” inside of Connery Rink.
“For them to get over the hump (against Somerville), it was incredible to see. All around, it was a great atmosphere and exciting for these kids.”
Eleven seconds into a power play, the Jets lit the lamp after Aaron Cook spotted Anthony Alessi for a one-timer. From there, Cook scored a five-hole tally after goalie Nicholas DeNino (28 saves) made a leg-pad breakaway save.
“He’s been lights out for us,” Boisson said of his netminder. “For all three periods, these kids grinded and played as a team. If we show up as a team . . . these kids can do anything. We tell them that every day.”
After Somerville cut the deficit in half, Lynn put the game away with insurance goals from Joseph Plourde and John Doyle. Pedro Lopez and Denim Dembro helped the cause with assists.
The third period was dominant in favor of the Jets, who held a 43-29 advantage in shots.
Boisson credited “grinder” Marc Poste and Julius Serino as well. The team’s leading scorers are Cook (22 points), Poste (17), Kyle Furlong (13), Alessi (11), and Nathan Silva (10).
Lynn returns to the ice Saturday in Everett. The Jets conclude against Minuteman, Leominster, Assabet Valley, and Bishop Fenwick with a play-in game on the line.
“Anything can happen in the tournament,” Boisson said.
