BLOOMINGTON, Ill. (Grossinger Motors Arena) – The Illinois State University ACHA Division I hockey team took on their rivals from the University of Illinois on Friday, September 29. Goaltender Marc Hayton was the key player from last night’s game as he blocked 40 of 45 shots on goal to keep the Birds in the game.

Both sides were nearly locked in a stalemate throughout the duration of the first period. ISU went on the first power play of the game but it was cleared away by the Illini before the Redbirds could take advantage. The Redbirds penalty kill line also stepped up, clearing two consecutive Illini power plays in the first. The period looked as though it would end 0-0, but U of I, with only 30 seconds left, got the scoring started with the first goal of the game.

The Illini’s momentum continued into the second period as they started off with a goal only three minutes in. ISU had a brief opportunity when Illinois took two consecutive penalties, thus giving the Birds a 5-on-3. However, both penalties were cleared by U of I. They not only cleared the penalties but were quick to make up for them by quickly scoring another two goals.

ISU was not willing to give up, what seemed like bad luck at first due to an off-sides call on a breakaway, turned into ISU breaking U of I’s shutout. With just 30 seconds left in the second period Kyle Melton scored the Redbirds first goal of the game, with assists from Ryan Glennon and Max Puscheck. At the end of two, the Illini led ISU 4-1.

Both team fought hard in the third period with ISU not willing to call it quits and the Illini not willing to give them any chance at a comeback. U of I took the first penalty of the period, but it was once again cleared before the Birds had a chance to capitalize. ISU was not so lucky as they took a penalty with only two and half minutes left. Illinois capitalized upon this and scored a power play goal before the end of the game to win by a final score of 5-1.

What’s Next?

The ISU Division I team will be battling for revenge against the Illini on September 30 at 1:00 p.m. from Grossinger Motors Arena.

Written By: Megan McCabe