The top-ranked Illinois hockey club returned home to the Big Pond in winning fashion Friday night, defeating Kent State 6-1. Senior captain Drew Heredia scored twice as the Illini recorded their 22nd straight victory.

After failing to capitalize on several early scoring chances, winger Jordan Pringle broke a scoreless tie just over a minute into the second period. From there, the Illini found the net at a furious pace, scoring a total of five times in the second period.

Goaltender Mike Burda narrowly missed his fifth shutout of the year, but his 15 saves held the Golden Flashes at bay and preserved the Illini lead to the final buzzer.

Illinois looks for its 11th consecutive series sweep in tomorrow night’s finale against the Flashes.

Be sure to listen to live coverage of the Illini hockey team on WPGU 107.1 FM starting with Standing Room Only at 6 p.m.