The Illini hockey team won by a score of 9-1 against ACHA Division II University of Michigan-Dearborn at the Illinois Ice Arena on Friday night.

After losing their first game in two seasons a couple weekends ago, the Illini came out firing to get back on course, scoring two goals in the first period from the sticks of Gabe Heller and later captain Jordan Pringle, 13th of the season.

The Illini kept the pressure on Michigan-Dearborn goalie Matthew Janiga in the second period, with tallies by Mark Ergun, Rob Deubel twice and JJ Heredia. Michigan-Dearborn broke through with a goal by Brandon Contratto midway through the period.

On Heredia’s goal, Jason Nemeth provided an assist to move into a tie with Pat Olsen (2000-2004) for 10th on the Illini all-time list in points with 184.

In the third, the Illini stayed consistent with their attack scoring three more times by Daniel Cohen, Brad Hoelzer, and Tim Gilbert.

Illini goaltender Mike Burda stopped 12 shots, while Janiga stopped 40 shots.

Illinois improved to 12-1-0 overall on the season.

The two teams play again Saturday at 7:30 p.m. at the Ice Arena.