BLOOMINGTON, Ill. (Grossinger Motors Arena) -- The Illinois State University ACHA Division I men’s hockey team took on Rochester College on Friday, Oct. 6 looking for their first win of the season. A late overtime goal from Anthony Corcoran provided the Redbirds with a 3-2 win, their first of the season.

Illinois State committed an early penalty in the first period, but were quick to clear it away, silencing Rochester. Despite the Birds maintaining possession of the puck for most of the first period, Rochester snuck one past the goaltender Marc Hayton with eight minutes left. After the Redbirds killed another penalty the period ended with Rochester holding a 1-0 advantage.

Rochester was quick to add to their lead in the second period as they scored an early goal. Despite Rochester taking two penalties, one right after the other, ISU was unable to capitalize until late in the second. With only three minutes left Robert Kalata scored a goal off a pass from behind the net by Trevor Hansen and Conner Boscaccy. Determined to get back in the game with only 57 seconds on the clock, Boscaccy scored a goal of his own with an assist from Hansen to tie the game up at 2-2 and bring a close to the second period.

ISU went on two power plays in the third period, but were unable to capitalize. However, the battle wasn’t over as goaltender Hayton was determined to keep the Birds in the game, making plays each time Rochester came down the ice. The game was forced into overtime as both teams were caught in a stalemate in the third period.

Corcoran scored the game-winning goal in overtime with an assist from Andrew VanDyke to give the Redbirds their first victory of the 2017 season.

What’s Next?

The Illinois State University ACHA Division I hockey team will look for the sweep against Rochester College on Saturday October 7th at 1 p.m. from Grossinger Motors Arena.

Written By: Megan McCabe