DiStefano leads the NIU Hockey Club to victory, ending losing streak

By SEAMUS BRENNAN

Oh snap.

That’s what the NIU Hockey Club did to their eight-game losing streak at Leafs Ice Centre in West Dundee with a 4-1 victory over St. Louis University Friday night,

It was Student Association night as many SA organizations came out to support the Huskies.

But the night belonged to freshman forward Bobby DiStefano.

DiStefano scored his first hat trick of the year, giving the Huskies a much-needed offensive boost.

“[DiStefano] was the highlight of the game,” said Club President Ian Kalanges.

Goalie Tim Benham was also on point, saving 41 of 42 Billikens shot attempts.

Matt Kieffer added to the party with a goal of his own.

But the good feelings came to an end Saturday when the Huskies lost 4-3 in overtime in their second game against St. Louis.

Heading into the third period tied 2-2, the Huskies struck first with a shorthanded goal by sophomore Mike Sible, but the Billikens would tie it right back up at 3-3 with eight minutes remaining in regulation.

Three minutes into overtime is all the Billikens would need to end the contest.

“We should have never been in certain situations on Saturday, being so close,” Sible said. “We should have beat them by two or three goals.”

Junior Peter Alfano was content with the weekend even after the loss.

“I think this was our best overall play as a team versus a conference opponent all season,” he said. “We definitely had their number, just wish we could have pulled it out on Saturday.”