The last time the NIU Hockey Club defeated Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville was five years ago.

So you can understand the heartbreak the Huskies felt after blowing a 2-0 lead Friday night at the Leafs Ice Centre in West Dundee. The Huskies would go on to lose 4-2.

After two power-play goals from Nick Messing and Mike Strumberger in the first period, the Huskies allowed four unanswered goals in the second period.

Goalie Brandon Colello made his final start of his collegiate career, stopping 28 goals of 32 attempted.

But Saturday night’s season finale would hold better luck for the Huskies.

After Ian Kalanges, senior forward and club president, put the Huskies ahead 2-1 in the second period, SIU-E would tie the game with seven minutes remaining in regulation to force an overtime.
With 20 seconds remaining in overtime, junior forward Chris Bednarek scored the game-winning goal, ending a five-year losing streak for the Huskies against the Cougars.

“It felt really good to finally beat this team,” Kalanges said. “As long as I have been playing for NIU, we have never beaten them, and to send the seniors off on such a high note made the win that much better.”

The Huskies failed to advance to the post season, finishing 13-20-4.

In other news:

The NIU Men’s Rugby Club is still looking for more players. Potential Rugby players are advised to contact Club President Al Collins at niumensrugby@yahoo.com. Indoor practices are held every Tuesday and Thursday in the Chick Evans Field House from 4 to 6 p.m.

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