Clifton United Advances to Silver Cup Final With 5-3 Win

Four-goal performance from Ryan Montana powers Clifton United to championship game

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Clifton United, a co-op ice hockey program, defeated Old Tappan 5-3 in the Big North Silver Cup semifinal on Wednesday. Ryan Montana scored four goals, including the game-winner, to lead Clifton United to the championship game against Paramus on Friday.

Why it matters

This victory marks a significant milestone for the Clifton United co-op program, which brings together players from three different high schools. Advancing to the Silver Cup final showcases the team's talent and ability to compete at a high level in the competitive Big North Conference.

The details

Clifton United, comprised of players from Cedar Grove, Clifton, and Passaic Valley high schools, improved its record to 11-8 with the semifinal win. Ryan Montana delivered a dominant performance, scoring four goals, including a power-play goal and the eventual game-winner. Old Tappan struck first, but Clifton responded quickly with Montana tying the game and then giving Clifton a 2-1 lead. Old Tappan evened the score at 2-2 in the second period, but the third period belonged to Clifton, with Montana scoring two more goals to put the game away.

  • The semifinal game was played on Wednesday, February 12, 2026.
  • Clifton United will face Paramus in the Silver Cup championship game on Friday, February 13, 2026.

The players

Ryan Montana

A standout player for Clifton United, scoring four goals in the semifinal victory.

Thomas Cannataro

The goaltender for Clifton United, making 27 saves on 30 shots to earn the victory.

Alexander Labe

A player for Old Tappan, scoring a hat trick in the losing effort.

Logan Mascaro

The goaltender for Old Tappan, stopping 23 of 28 shots.

Paramus

Clifton United's opponent in the Silver Cup championship game.

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What’s next

Clifton United will face Paramus in the Silver Cup championship game on Friday, February 13, 2026, as they look to capture the title.

The takeaway

The success of the Clifton United co-op program demonstrates the benefits of collaboration and the ability of student-athletes from different schools to come together and achieve success at the highest levels of high school sports.