During any other season, Northampton head hockey coach Brian Ruff might welcome a two-week layoff.

But this season's respite didn't exactly fall on an appropriate period. Ruff's team is off to a fast start in the Lehigh Valley Scholastic Hockey League. The Konkrete Kids began this week's play with an unblemished 5-0 record and tied with Parkland (5-0) atop the league standings. They haven't played since they blitzed Liberty, 9-1, Nov. 3.

"This isn't the time for a break," said the veteran coach. "We're not happy about it. We have been playing good hockey and it's not the time to take off. But we have to deal with it, and do whatever we need to do."

Ruff stated his team will get as much ice time as possible with practices and simulated game-related situations before they resume play Monday against Phillipsburg.

"I just hope we don't get rusty," added Ruff. "We're about as healthy as we can be right now as we only have one player banged up with a broken finger. We're really in good shape right now."

Ruff, whose team will be looking to win their first LVSHL title since 2011, sees this team based around the play of a sturdy defensive unit of seniors Jared Barna, Cory Croll, Steve Gober, Colin O'Donnell, and Tristan Shanan.

They have allowed only 14 goals this season and have taken pressure off goalie Patrick Lothian.

"These guys know what we expect of them and they know how to take care of business," noted Ruff of his unit. "They have done a great job protecting in front of the goalie. Our success will depend on their consistency."

Offensively, the Kids have been paced by Gavin Carey, who leads the team with eight goals along with Anthony Belsky (six) and O'Donnell (five).

"We have a lot of balance on offense, but we don't have the big gun that we have had in the past," said Ruff. "We have nine forwards who play in a system. They all work as a team well."

With undefeated Parkland also at the top, Ruff sees a tight league throughout the season.

"We know we will be in a battle with Parkland and we haven't played them yet," said Ruff. "The Diocese team skates well and they will be a challenge. Phillipsburg always has a solid program and Freedom will also be there. They (Freedom) lost a close game to Parkland.

"We're playing well, but we have a long way to go and work."