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Cougars get taste of the big-time
    Downingtown East (2-2) held its own in the 7-4 loss at West Genesee, a perennial New York power that now figures to be the top-ranked team in the country.
    Jordan Rogers scored three goals for the Wildcats and goalie Steve Mahle recorded 18 saves to overcome a 30-15 advantage in shots by the Cougars. Dylan Hoff had two goals for the defending Pennsylvania state champions and Shane Sturgis and Rocco Pilero added one each while Mike Strathy had five saves.
    “We were right there, but we made a couple mistakes and every time you make a mistake they score,” said East coach Tom Slate. “That was the best team we have ever played; maybe not personnel-wise, but in how well-coached they are. That’s been their MO for the past 30 years.
    “But it was a surreal experience, just being a part of it. They threw us a nice party and they have a nice bunch of kids.”