(O'FALLON, Ill., Nov. 22) – The McKendree University men's D1 hockey team used an explosive third period, scoring three goals in 1:19 to defeat Midland University, 4-1 on Friday night at the McKendree Metro Rec Plex.
 
The Bearcats advance to 8-1 overall and 6-1 in Midwest College Hockey (MCH) play.
 
After a scoreless opening period, Midland jumped on the board first with a goal 12 minutes into the second period. Senior Dominic Naas (Neurensdorf, Zurich, Switzerland/Casper Coyotes WSHL) evened the game at one on a breakaway set up by senior Alec Nichols (Cedar Rapids, IA/Northern Iowa Bulls NA3HL) and Lazar Lestaric (Belgrade, Serbia/National Sports Academy USHS). After 40 minutes of play, the game was knotted a one apiece.
 
In the third period, the Bearcats exploded for three goals in 1:19. Junior Shayne Pluto (Calgary, Alberta, Canada/Central Memorial High School) started the run with help from Naas and Nichols. Junior Connor Brennan (Castle Rock, CO/Regis Jesuit High School) scored exactly one minute later with an assist from senior Tyler Wilson (Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta, Canada/). Sophomore Otasowie Omoregie (Pickering, Ontario, Canada/) netted the final goal 19 seconds later, set up by freshman Reilly DeGray (Smith Falls, Ontario, Canada/Smith Falls District Collegiate Institute).
 
In net, Andrew Best (Midland, Ontario, Canada/Cambridge Bears Junior A team) recorded 23/24 saves in the victory.
 
McKendree will look for a sweep of Midland, tomorrow night at 7:00pm.