December 4, 2007 - It's only 45 miles or so as the crow flies, or in this case as the Redbirds fly, between Champaign and Bloomington, but it's been 22 years since these two teams have faced each other. The year was 1985 and the Illini played Illinois State twice in November, the first time beating them 11-1, and two weeks later, doubling up on the score, winning 22-4. Definitely different times and different teams.
These Redbirds are respected in the ACHA's Division II, and are currently ranked 10th in the Central division. Currently with a record of 10-8-1, the Redbirds are tied for second place in Gold division of the Mid-America Collegiate Hockey Association. Illinois State defeated the University of Illinois' division II team twice earlier this season, with scores of 5-3 and 7-4. The Redbirds have been slightly out-edging their opponents this season, putting in just under 5 goals per game, while allowing 4. Leading the ISU skaters in points is third year player, Brett Kahanec with 20 (14 goals, 6 assists), followed by captain Olindo Alo with 17 (12 goals, 5 assists) and Steven Hong, also with 17 (6 goals, 11 assists). These aren't the only Illinois State weapons, there are 7 other Redbird players with at least 10 points each, and Robbie Dinschel has been averaging just about a point per game since being brought up from the Icebirds. A strong defense has also been credited for keeping the Redbirds in games, as well as goaltending from Chris Moore, who has been filling in for the injured John Orlak. Moore currently has a Goals Against Average of 3.72 for the season.
These should be a pair of exciting games at the Illini are looking to go 17-0-0 for the first half of the season. The action will take place at the University of Illinois Ice Arena both Friday and Saturday nights, with the puck dropping at 7:00pm. All home games this season can be heard on the radio and online thanks to 107.1 WPGU-FM |
