Wayne Hills had the big advantage in shots in its ice hockey match-up with league rival Ramapo. But the Patriots' first win of the season still didn't come easily, as they had to battle for a 5-3 victory.

Dean Hulbert led the way for Wayne Hills with two goals and an assist. The Patriots had 43 shots on goal to just 13 for Ramapo, but bunched their goals in a pair of quick bursts.

After dominating the first period, Wayne Hills broke through to score three times in less than three minutes in the late stages of the stanza. Ramapo started creating chances in the second period, scoring twice to pull within 3-2.

But the Patriots effectively put the game away early in the third, scoring a pair of goals in less than 45 seconds.

Lawrence Kruglyak, Daniel Mirman and Michael Tirella also scored for Wayne Hills. Goalie Dan Riina made 10 saves.

Luke Mutterer kept Ramapo in the game by making 38 saves, including more than 20 stops in the first period alone. Ben Surat had a goal and an assist for the Green Raiders, while Michael Pear and Michael Lagana also scored.

It's the first loss of the season for Ramapo, which is now 1-1-1.

Wayne Hills, which started the winter with tough games against Glen Rock and Mahwah, is also now 1-1-1.

For sports video highlights of this New Jersey and Big North Conference high school boys' ice hockey game, click play in the box at left.