It’s starting to look like a lost year for hockey at Nashua’s two public high schools. Heading into Wednesday, North and South are a combined 1-12, and that one win was the Panthers’ win over the Titans back in early January.

Indeed, North (0-7) was expected to struggle, but back then it appeared South could at least be competitive, even against some of the tougher teams. But the Panthers (1-5) have lost four in a row, during a stretch where they’ve been outscored 25-10, and were simply pasted by Trinity of Manchester 9-3 this past Saturday.

What’s happened? South coach Kevin Purdy, whose team has a tough stretch with scheduled  back-to-back games vs. Exeter, didn’t mince words when he tried to explain his team’s struggles.

“A sense of urgency, drive, or passion for the game, it’s not there,” he said. “It’s there for a few, but a few doesn’t make a whole team.”

Indeed, Purdy has always been one to speak his mind, and let’s see if his words ignites a fire that will help turn things around…

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Meanwhile, in Division III, a great local boys game shapes up – weather permitting, and that is highly doubtful – for Wednesday at 7:20 p.m. at Conway Arena with red hot Souhgen (7-1), winners of seven in a row, up against Hollis/Brookline, who at 5-2 are one of the up-and-coming programs. The Sabers whacked the Cavs twice last year, helping to cost Hollis a tourney bid, so this will be a good measuring stick for HB. Meanwhile, Sabers coach Ed Viola sees a stretch with Hollis/Brookline, at Somersworth (7-1) on Saturday, and at Hollis/Brookline as an important juncture of the season.

“It’s a big week,” Viola said. “We look at it the same way. It’s good to play the tough teams; if you win, fantastic, it’s two points. If you don’t, we learn from it and move on…These kids are pretty good at focusing on the next game, and they’re ready to go.”

Weather could wipe out another key Division III game, because Somersworth is slated to host surprising unbeaten (7-0-1) Bedford on Wednesday as well.

— TOM KING