Illinois (16-5-4, 49 pts.) takes on the Davenport Panthers (14-16-4, 42 pts.) in its first home match of the new semester this weekend. The series marks the first of four-straight home series to end the season. 

Struggle in the Sooner state

Illinois spent last weekend in Oklahoma, where it competed against Oklahoma (12-9-4, 35 pts.) and Central Oklahoma (12-12-0, 33 pts.). Match one against Oklahoma resulted in a 4-2 win. However, the Illini came away with a 6-1 loss in match two. Illinois suffered another loss in its final game of the weekend, falling to Central Oklahoma 4-3 in overtime. 

“At times last weekend, we struggled getting out of our own zone and making plays on the rush,” said sophomore forward Carson Mitchell.

After the upsetting results, Mitchell explained that this week’s practices were focused on enhancing breakouts and attacking on rushes with more speed. 

Illini rematch Panthers 

In their previous matchup with the Panthers, the Illini split the weekend. The Panthers took game one 3-2 in overtime, while the Illini took match two 3-2 in the shootout thanks to graduate student forward Ross Jaldung’s goal. 

Mitchell says that the Panthers are highly skilled and move the puck with efficiency. In their previous match, the Illini had a strong forecheck, which forced turnovers in their zone. 

“If we want to have similar success this weekend, the forecheck and our neutral zone structure are going to be important to stop their speed up ice,” Mitchell said.

Mitchell can’t miss

Mitchell has led the Illini in goals throughout the season thus far. In 25 games played, Mitchell has racked up 15 and credits the achievement to his teammates. 

“The biggest reason for my continued goal scoring is my linemates being able to find me in open spots to use my shot,” Mitchell said. “They have given me the best chance to capitalize on opportunities.”  

Game one takes place on Friday and game two on Saturday at the University of Illinois Ice Arena. Puck is set at 7 p.m. for both games. 

[email protected]

About the Contributor